Rehabilitation after leg amputation is a planned process that aims to prepare the person for daily life with a prosthesis. It begins a few weeks after the wound on the residual limb has healed, and in most cases the initial rehabilitation period may last up to about six months. This process is carried out in line with the specialist physician's assessment and prescription.
Rehabilitation team and process
Rehabilitation is usually carried out by an interdisciplinary team: physicians, nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists plan the process together. The therapy program is adapted to the person's current health status and functional needs. At the beginning, physiotherapy sessions are mostly held every day, with occupational therapy added at regular intervals during the day. The person's active participation plays an important role in the success of the process.
Gait training
The first step of gait training is to regain strength, endurance and coordination through goal-oriented physiotherapy. In above-knee (femoral) amputation, the operating principle of the prescribed knee joint directly affects the training program; for this reason, the program is shaped according to the prosthetic components used. Gait training with a prosthesis progresses step by step under the therapist's supervision, starting with weight transfer between parallel bars and moving on to walking safely outdoors.
- Donning and doffing the prosthesis: This forms the basis of walking with a prosthesis; although family support is helpful at the beginning, the goal is independence. The appropriate method is determined according to the type of prosthesis and the condition of the residual limb.
- Sitting down and standing up: Users with a suitable knee joint can put weight on both legs while sitting down; this helps prevent overloading of the sound side.
- Walking on level ground: Balance, coordination and sufficient weight transfer to the prosthetic side are developed. Walking aids such as a walker are reduced over time, and exercises are monitored so that incorrect walking habits do not become established.
- Stairs and ramps: The correct technique is determined according to the prosthetic components and practiced as part of physiotherapy; the skill of going up and down stairs with a prosthesis is usually addressed after level-ground practice.
Residual limb care
Regular and careful care of the residual limb is necessary for trouble-free use of the prosthesis. The skin should be washed morning and evening with a mild soap and dried thoroughly; care products designed for residual limb skin can be used. The inner socket of the prosthesis should be wiped with a damp cloth to remove sweat and skin residue. Skin injuries, pressure points and blisters may require medical treatment; a mirror can be useful for checking the back of the residual limb. Gently softening the scar with massage helps to desensitize sensitive skin.
Protecting the sound leg
After amputation, more load is placed on the sound leg; for this reason, keeping it healthy is important for mobility. People with circulatory disorders should regularly check the sound leg for minor injuries and consult a physician when necessary. Well-fitting, comfortable shoes reduce the load; wool or cotton socks with good sweat absorption should be preferred, and their elastic band should not restrict circulation.
Pain and sensory changes
After amputation, different types of pain may occur in the residual limb, such as bone, wound or nerve pain, or phantom limb pain, and they are treated according to their cause. Sensory changes caused by the cutting of nerves usually decrease over time; gently stimulating the skin with different textures may support this process. Such complaints should be discussed with a specialist physician or a pain therapist.
This content is for informational purposes; you should consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
