About two to three days after surgery, you will be encouraged and helped to get about. This should help you to see you are recovering, and make you feel more positive. The physiotherapist will visit you shortly after your operation and show you how to do exercises to keep the muscles around the operation site strong and supple, making it easier to work an artificial limb. Following an amputation most people can be fitted with an artificial limb, called a prosthesis. An artificial-limb fitter may visit you before or after your operation to show you the different types of prosthesis and how they work.
Careful measurements have to be taken so that the prosthesis fits properly.
It may take several weeks for your prosthesis to be made and in the meantime you may be fitted with a temporary one so that you can begin to get used to it. Artificial limb fittings are usually arranged through the ward, but they are usually supplied by disablement services. Once your wound has healed you will be able to go home, usually after a couple of weeks. All rights reserved. Readers are strongly advised to discuss the information with their doctor.