Rehabilitation of Individuals with Limb Loss due to Trauma

Abstract

To provide a comprehensive overview of care and rehabilitation of those with traumatic limb loss, from preoperative to lifelong care. Comprehensive care including peer support and monitoring for the development of secondary conditions which compound disability is essential after traumatic amputation. Conditions that commonly develop after traumatic limb loss include heterotopic ossification, intact limb knee osteoarthritis, low back pain, and reduction in cardiopulmonary reserve. Optimal care for people after traumatic limb loss requires a multidisciplinary team to provide perioperative and lifelong care. In addition to ensuring optimal rehabilitation based on the individual’s vocational and avocational goals, current function, concomitant injuries, and amputation level, their psychological recovery must not be overlooked. To optimize quality of life and independence, lifelong follow-up with a physiatrist is essential to care for complications and secondary conditions, as well as to promote an active lifestyle.