Is learning to use a prostheses difficult?
Your wound has healed and your recovery process is giving way to the learning process. One of the questions we frequently hear from new patients, or potential new patients goes something like this:
“Will I have difficulty learning to use a prosthetic device?”
First and foremost, every patient is different, and every amputation is different. So, there is no one universal answer to this question.
However, one of the most important aspects of learning to use a new prosthetic device successfully is to approach the situation with optimism, and a “can do” attitude.
What You Will Need to Learn
In order to live your life to the fullest post amputation, learning to use and care for your prosthesis properly is critical. Here are a few things you need to learn with regards to your prostheses in order to do just that:
– Taking care of the prosthesis, including cleaning it properly, as well as putting on and taking off the prosthesis correctly.
– Walking on a variety of surfaces, including outdoors or on uneven terrain.
– Performing daily activities at your home, such as using the restroom, showering, and getting ready to face the day ahead, and in many cases driving a car.
– Exercising to strengthen your muscles in areas where you may have lost muscle mass.
– Handling emergencies safely. When you first start using a prosthesis, you may be unsteady. It is important that you learn how to get yourself out of certain situations when possible. Otherwise, call someone for assistance.
– It’s also important that you investigate and try new activities with your prosthetic device in order to get a feel for how to use the device in a variety of situations.
Embrace Your Difficulty and Conquer Your Fears
Charles. R. Swindoll is credited with the quote, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” You can still live a happy, successful, rewarding and purpose-filled life as an amputee.
At Purple Prosthetics we do everything in our power to equip you to do just that. You have already had to make the tough decisions and learn to accept things others will never understand. You are more than capable of learning something new and showing the world that strength comes in so many forms.
Keep your mindset positive. There will be hard days. But that does not have to define the whole journey.
Create goals for yourself and do not be afraid of trial and error. Every “failed” attempt is a strengthening exercise. Push through when it’s hard. Wait for the right time, but avoid procrastination of the process. The faster you start, the faster you will learn.
Don’t underestimate the power of exercise. And also do not underestimate the power of you. Seek out people who will cheer you on, but also those who are in the same process. Community is good.
Focus on the positive now and the positive ahead. It is a skill you will take with you for the rest of your lives.
It won’t be easy and it may even be difficult, but you can learn to use your new prosthesis and we are here to help you. If you are looking for a prosthetics provider to support you and work with you every step of the way, Contact Purple Prosthetics today.
We are here for YOU!
