Amputation

Amputation – the removal or absence of a part of the body. Most common types of amputations occur as a surgical procedure due to trauma (e.g. a motor vehicle accident) or an underlying medical condition (e.g. gangrene as a result of diabetes). Amputations can occur in both lower and upper extremities as well as single digits. Some cases are congenital (e.g. a child is born without a part of an extremity). The effects are permanent.

SYMPTOMS

Weakness
Impaired sensation
Pain
Impaired range of movement in the joint
Deformities
Joint stiffness
Difficulty performing activities of daily living

HOW WE CAN HELP

At Q Enrichment Center, our Occupational Therapist will conduct an extensive, comprehensive assessment to determine the type of difficulty, the severity, as well as the impact on Activities of Daily Living (“ADL”). A detailed report will be completed, along with a treatment plan specific to each individual’s needs.
Intervention can focus on:
- finding alternative methods / compensatory strategies to perform activities of daily living (e.g. bathing, dressing, using the toilet)
- addressing deficits such as weakness, sensory impairment, and pain that limit engagement in ADLs and Instrumental ADLs (“IADLS”) (IADLS: carrying groceries, cooking a meal, managing money, parenting)
- recommending special equipment or assistive devices / technology for use at home, school or work
- teaching the client and caregiver how to properly use adaptive equipment, like orthotics and / or braces
- recommending exercises to maintain range of motion, strength
- teaching the client and/or caregiver on exercises and home programmes for carryover in the home.
- compensatory strategies for loss of the limb
- transferring dominance training
- educating the client on energy effectiveness strategies and joint protection principles to promote well being
- environmental modifications (home and job-site)
- positioning to maintain range of motion, prevent contractures and minimize pain (e.g. splinting)
- scar management to prevent contractures, deformities and pain