Contractures are very common in patients who undergo lower limb amputation. Proper guidance on positioning of the limb is important to prevent such complications. That patient has the tendency to keep the leg in the bent position, which is incorrect. The correct position is to keep the limb straight, without bending. Various exercises are taught to the patient for all the limbs including the amputated limb.
Strengthening exercises are emphasized, mainly for both upper limbs. This is important because the patient is made to walk with the help of mobility aids i.e. crutches, walker etc. for which the patient requires more energy. Additionally, strengthening exercises are given to the unaffected limb, as this has to bear the weight of the body when patient tries to ambulate.The following exercises are taught to the patients. To mention a few:
1) Exercises for all the joints a upper limb and lower limb using sand bags, dumbbells of various weights.
2) Bridging exercises.
3) Balancing exercises
4) Weight transfer exercises etc.
Patient can lead a normal life as before. There have been many celebreties like the famous classical dancer Ms.Sudha Chandran, and more who are leading a normal life after undergoing amputation.
