It is reported that about 43,000 major amputations occur each year in the United States. Around one-third of the amputations are to the arms and the rest are to the legs. Many are the result of trauma. Males outnumber females undergoing amputations at a ratio of 4 to 1. The loss of a limb can be devastating. It is possible, with the use of artificial limbs, to return to anything the injured person wants to do. It requires hard work and a good support team.

When someone loses an arm or leg, all or part of the lost limb can be replaced with an artificial limb, called a prosthesis. Over the years, prosthetic limbs have improved. There are many choices available to meet the needs of each individual.

The primary goal of the prosthesis is to restore function. People are also concerned with how the device looks. It is possible to get a very lifelike replacement. It is also possible to get a very durable, strong limb. There is no one replacement that fits everyone's needs or desires. It is important for the patient to work with healthcare providers to pick the right device that meets their functional and cosmetic needs.

After an amputation, the patient will begin to work with a rehabilitation specialist, like a physical therapist. A program will be developed to help heal the amputation site and keep the remaining muscles and joints healthy and strong. Frequently the patient is introduced to local support groups.

It takes different skills and lots of practice to use an artificial limb. A training program is necessary to master the skills needed to use an artificial limb. A patient may use a series of different limbs until all the tissues have fully healed and the right one is chosen. Early use and thoughtful choosing of the correct prosthesis will help the patient get the most from the new limb.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go