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Losing a limb can be an overwhelming experience for anyone to go through. It requires a combined professional approach to help you adjust to living without your limb. Physiotherapy plays a key role during the rehabilitation of individuals who have had an amputation.

The role of Physiotherapy in Amputation 

Pre-operation Physiotherapy

Prior to non-emergency amputation a physiotherapist will provide:

Pre-operation exercises to maintain current muscle strength and range of movement at body joints. 

Education on what to expect post-surgery regarding rehabilitation.

Post-operation Physiotherapy

A physiotherapist can provide several interventions to assist with post-operation rehabilitation.

Treatments may include:

Massage to relieve pain, promote the healing process and relieve tension in muscles surrounding the stump or the opposite limb where problems can arise due to over-use caused by compensation.

Acupuncture and electrical stimulation is used to treat phantom limb pain and phantom sensation.

Exercises to minimise stiffness in other joints and work towards strengthening whilst the patient remains on bed-rest.

This stage of intervention includes an initial assessment, exercise program appropriate to patient goals and according to if the patient would like to wear a prosthesis. 

A person with an amputation, in the prosthetic phase, can continue to improve greatly if they are taught about the major goals of the post-fitting stage. Physiotherapy treatment focuses supporting,

• Range of motion
• Strength
• Balance
• Coordination
• Agility
• Endurance

Physiotherapy during rehabilitation ensures the best results in returning to an active, independent lifestyle.