What happens after an amputation?
Outside of traumatic head injury, any injury that requires amputation is likely one of the most serious medical injuries. Making the decision to amputate a limb (or, not even having the ability to make that decision) is extremely traumatic both mentally and physically.
Having questions about life after amputation is normal. It is likely that your post-amputation care will involve rehabilitation and managing complications.
What is rehabilitation?
The process of rehabilitation aims to strengthen the muscles you have in your remaining limbs. This process will help you regain mobility and Independence. It is likely that you will find the initial phases of physical therapy to be extremely frustrating.
Your physical therapist will intensify the rehabilitation measures alongside your recovery rate. It is not unusual for amputees to end up back in the hospital if they try and do too much too soon. It is important to listen to your physical therapist and not either overdo it.
What kinds of complications might there be?
There are multiple complications associated with amputation and any surgery. It is possible that you may develop heart problems or deep vein thrombosis. Healing may be slow, particularly if the wound gets infected. Pneumonia is often a big problem following surgery. Many amputees also report suffering from phantom limb syndrome.
In addition to physical suffering, you may need to go through a mental reckoning with your new condition. You will need to get used to your new body and the lack of feeling and function that used to exist in the amputated limb. Many amputees benefit from therapy.
