Most recent changes to the amputation of my right leg and some helpful information concerning amputation, prosthetics and coping with both

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Today is January 26, 2008, and It has been about 7 weeks since I had my right leg removed, and I am working on getting up and around on my new leg. The photos to the right and below show the progress of the healing taking place on the new amputation, as well as the older one which was removed around Oct. - Nov. 2005.

The left leg has greatly reduced in size and continues to get smaller, although a slower rate. After the removal of limbs, the goal is to reduce the swelling and fluids so the fitting of prosthetics can be started.

Below you can see the difference between the size of the newly amputated limb and the reduced size that I have achieved in 5 weeks. There is some bruising and some broken out patches of skin, due to the use of the silicone gel liner used to hold the leg on. This will eventually heal and clear up.

When first getting fitted for artificial limbs, communication with the prosthetist is crucial in getting a proper fit. A proper fit can only be made if the patient can convey clearly what is not right about the fit. Several legs will be made in the process of healing over time. Always exercise caution when first walking on the new prosthetic, and use assistive devices such as wheel chairs, walkers and crutches,. Any damage done to the residual limb could result in the inability to wear a prosthetic due to permanent damage.

Regular follow up visits with the doctor and the prosthetist will ensure a proper healing and a proper fit.

The constant monitoring of the limbs and the prosthetic legs, will make the use a bearable one. Always inspect the limbs and prosthetics, and report any observations to the doctor or prosthetist

If you have any questions concerning preparation for amputation, residual limb maintenance of questions about the fitting and use of prosthetics, e-mail me at amputationinformation