Following an amputation, a major life adjustment is required. In addition to learning to live with limb loss, there is a myriad of side effects that can affect an amputee. Every one of these side effects will impact negatively on the quality of life. If you or someone you know has lost a limb due to amputation, you may recognise some of these symptoms. Chronic pain: This is very common and can contribute significantly to any disability. People who have lost limbs describe different forms of long-term pain including: Phantom limb pain – a very common symptom in which pain is perceived where the missing limb used to be. Phantom pain is more likely to occur following traumatic amputation than medical amputation. Residual limb pain- this is also very common and is pain that originates from the remaining part of the amputated limb. Residual pain can arise from many different causes, including infection of the wound and a prosthesis that is poorly fitted. Loss of function: Depending on the site of the limb loss, loss of function can be severe. Many different factors can affect the recovery of function, including soft tissue and muscle coverage, surgical technique and prosthetic technology. Loss of function will have a direct impact on work options and the ability to return to employment.