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Below Knee Amputation
Case Study
Diagnosis:
Left below knee amputation secondary to long-standing peripheral vascular disease. 54-year-old male also diagnosed with congestive heart failure and supplemental O2.
Challenges and Strengths:
- Elective amputation to meet goal of pain control and improved quality of life.
- Slow healing incision related to a fall post-surgery. Fitting of the prosthesis was delayed several months.
- Raised bungalow with five front steps.
- Lives with supportive wife.
- Cognitively intact. Aware of trip hazards posed by O2 tubing and cat.
Solution:
A folding stable walker and manual wheelchair (temporary). Maximum stability in a walking aid was required.
The patient demonstrated sufficient coordination, balance, upper extremity strength and endurance to hop with a stable walker. Use of crutches was ruled out due to poor circulation, decreased sensation and proprioception in the remaining leg. While he was waiting to be fitted for his prosthesis, the walker was used primarily within his home and a rented manual wheelchair was prescribed for community access. The client “bummed” the 5 exterior stairs that were at his front entry.
When wearing the prosthesis, that was later fabricated, the patient did not require any walking aids. However, the standard walker was still used on a regular basis when he chose not to wear the prosthesis for morning ADL’s and night time mobility.
Choosing the Right Walker
You’ll need to consider much more than physical ability.
What about the environment and social supports?
Do You Need a Therapist?
And if so, how do you find a therapist?
We have a number of associations you may contact.
Where to Purchase a Walker
You have options and we have recommendations.
There is also financial assistance available to you.
Using a Walker Safely
From basic activities to common mistakes, here’s a guide to help you use your non-wheeled walker or wheeled walker safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly given answers. Feel free to contact us if you’d like to contribute and help others.
Case Studies
Professionally prepared resources that offer guidance to a successful thought process based on past experiences.
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