Every amputee faces questions from time to time, and often these questions can be fueled by common misconceptions. Floyd Brace Orthotics and Prosthetics is here to dispel some of these myths, and spread some much-needed amputee awareness:
- You must have had a tragic accident!
Not all amputation happen because of a traumatic experience. Some amputees are born without various body parts. This is referred to as congenital limb loss. Another common cause for amputation is complication associated with diabetes. In fact, this is the most common reason for amputation in the United States.
- Amputees wear their prosthesis all the time.
Wearing a prosthesis is like putting on a shoe. There are some times where it’s more comfortable to go without it. In some situations, wearing a prosthesis may not even be an option. If there are sensitive electronic parts in a prosthesis, for example, an amputee typically wouldn’t wear it while swimming.
- Amputees all have an amazing athletic ability.
Because of wonderful programs such as the Paralympics, there’s a lot of attention placed on amputees who have overcome their personal limb loss to become great athletes. However, not all amputees were athletic prior to limb loss, and may not feel inclined to take up a sport after the fact.
- Amputees can’t swim, hike, ride a bike, etc. again.
If people don’t think of amputees as great athletes, they often think of them as unable to participate in many activities. The truth is, many amputees are able to regain an active lifestyle, and enjoy exercise across a wide variety of difficulty. It may take work, but we’ve found most of our patients to be very resilient.
- Amputees walk different while using a prosthesis.
With the right prosthesis, prosthetist and physical therapist, it’s very easy for an amputee to hide the fact that they’re walking on a prosthetic leg. Often, people won’t know someone is an amputee until they choose to reveal it.
These aren’t the only myths we’ve heard circulating about amputees, but they are some of the more common ones. Are there any you would add to this list? Share this article and comment on our Facebook to spread awareness in your social circle! If you would like help returning to your active lifestyle, contact Floyd Brace today.
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