Fast Facts
LE Amputation
Facts about Amputation

 

  • 90% of all amputations are lower extremity
  • 77% are males
  • 3 million amputees in United States, estimated
  • 50% are between 21 - 65 years old
  • #1 leading cause of amputation is vascular conditions
  •  50% of vascular amputations are caused by Diabetes
  • 80% of diabetic amputatees are over 50 years old
  • Majority of Diabetic amputations are preventable
  • Reasons for an amputation include congenital amputation, tumors, vascular diseases, infections, and trauma
  • #2 leading cause for amputation is trauma
  • Tumors (any growth that necessitates amputation) are the 3rd most common cause for amputation
  • Gangrene is a deadly infection that must be amputated before it spreads

Walking again after LE Amputation

 

There are virtually no activities that a person with an amputation cannot perform with the right help, training and equipment. 


However, the most important rehabilitation objective for the majority of patients with a lower limb amputation is to walk again. 

Regaining the ability to walk will be a major achievement. All amputees have a greater oxygen requirement when walking.
How is it possible to Walk Again after Amputation?

 

It is possible to walk after an amputation.  How easy it will be to walk depends on a number of factors. 

 

It is generally easier to walk with an artificial leg (prosthesis) after a below knee amputation.  If you were able to walk normally before your amputation and do not have other illnesses such as angina or breathing difficulties this will also make it more likely you will walk after your amputation.

 

It is important that the artificial leg is used effectively, and that rehabilitation not be delayed for longer than two months after the amputation. 

 

It can take between 6 and 12 months for full rehabilitation potential to be reached.

 

Most patients undergoing minor amputation will be able to walk virtually normally after surgery. Read more

 

Walking is an essential part of wellness

 Physical benefits of exercise

  • Improves energy level
  • Makes bones and muscles stronger
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Helps improve sleep
  • Improves flexibility
  • Reduces risk of falls
  • Lowers chances of having a stroke

Mental benefits of exercise

  •  Reduces stress
  •  Lowers feelings of depression and anxiety
  •  Improves self-worth
  • Promotes independence

 (c) 2014 Second Step, Inc. All rights reserved. The Second Step, Inc. logo is a registered trademark of Second Step, Inc.

Could the Gait Harness System help
you,  your loved one or your patient?
 
 
Using the Gait Harness System
may provide a more affordable, long-term solution for those who want to increase daily therapy opportunities, in their home and/or in the clinic, particularly for those who have exceeded insurance coverage for in- or out-patient clinic visits.
Over-ground, real world therapy
The Gait Harness System may be used indoors and outdoors (on level, finished surfaces) for real world, over-ground therapy. Using the GHS outdoors encourages exercise therapy in a more natural, enriched environment.
Call us 877.299.STEP
Second Step, Inc.
Sales Office
1502 NW Oceanview Drive
Waldport OR 97394


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