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Injury

An amputation occurs when a body part, such as an arm or leg, is severed from a person's body. Those who have suffered an amputation are referred to as amputees. Losing a body part can make even the most routine tasks difficult or impossible. Many amputees are able to regain some of their functioning through the use of a prosthesis. If you have suffered a traumatic amputation due to negligence by another person you may be able to make an amputation compensation claim for injury and loss.

A prosthesis is an artificial replacement for the body part lost in the amputation. Though a prosthesis can never fully replace a limb, it can be a highly effective means of helping amputees return to a normal life. Your doctor, prosthetist and physical therapist will work together to make the prosthesis a success. The prosthetic limb must be designed and fit specifically to your body. You must also undergo training to learn how to use the prosthesis. There are a number of different types of prostheses. Some are basic, designed simply to address functionality. Others are more cosmetic in nature, created to replicate the look of a natural limb as closely as possible. In all cases the mere fact that you have to use a prosthesis can ensure a substantial damages payment in an amputation compensation claim.

The success of the prosthesis depends largely on the patient's commitment to the process. Learning to use the prosthesis takes time and requires patience, strength and a positive attitude. Some of the different things a first-time prosthesis wearer will learn includes :-

• proper care of the prosthesis
• taking the prosthesis on and off
• performing everyday tasks
• coping with emergencies
• determining whether you'll be able to participate in certain activities

Many patients are able to return to a normal mode of living within a few months. The key is to stay focused on your goals, be vigilant about proper follow-up care and maintain a good outlook. To consider these matter realistically a prosthesis can never replace what has been lost and in these cases even though the potential claimant may do there very best with a prosthesis and manage to master many ordinary everyday activities the amounts than can be awarded in an amputation compensation claim can still be very substantial.

Typically a patient can begin the process of getting a prosthesis a few weeks after their surgery. They must wait for the wound to heal and the tissue swelling to go down. As the patient prepares for the prosthesis, they should work on developing strength and function in the residual limb.

The fitting process takes place in several phases because the prosthesis is made specially for each patient. It may be necessary to make one or more follow-up visits to adjust the prosthesis so that it is comfortable and fits properly. A properly fitted prosthesis will not cause the patient pain or discomfort. Also, it should not be too tight or too lose on the residual limb. Throughout the fitting process, the patient should maintain open communication with their prosthetist and physical therapist.

A prosthesis may last several months or several years. Its lifespan depends on factors such as your age, growth and activity levels. The residual limb may shrink, causing the need to readjust the prosthesis. The patient may also decide to change the type of prosthesis at some point in the future if they'd like to increase their activity level. Once the patient is fully settled into their prosthesis and is maintaining a consistent routine, the prosthesis will last for an average of three years.

If you would like free advice on starting an amputation compensation claim from one of our personal injury solicitors just complete the contact form and we will immediately put you in touch with a specialist. If after talking to that lawyer you decide to proceed no further you will not be charged for our advice and there is no obligation to take matters further.