This material was compiled by Jayanthi Subbarao MD. MS
Rehabilitation following lower extremity amputation requires a comprehensive assessment of the patient to assess the rehabilitation potential of that person and also to determine the appropriate prosthetic components to maximize the function.
Principles for prescribing a Lower extremity Prosthesis
Publications ( Rehabilitation- Medical education resources )
This can be best done with a team approach of at least a physician and Physical therapist with sound knowledge of the various prostheitc options, and a skilled prosthetist who can not only prepare the prosthesis but to guide the team in obtaining the right prosthesis for that person. Complexity increases with higher level of lower extremity amputations.
Formal rehabilitation training with the help of a qualified physical therapist is essential for the patient to be able to utilize and maintain the prosthesis appropriately. The prosthetist should be available to make necessary adjustments to fit individual patient needs.
Patient assessments forms and determining the functional level are part of this educational material. The slide show reviews prosthetic prescription for clinicians who do not routinely manage patients with prosthetic rehabilitation needs.
Relevant References:
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Prosthetics: A simple introduction to artificial limbs: www.explainthatstuff.com/prosthetic-artificial-limbs.html
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VA/DoD CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE FOR REHABILITATION OF LOWER LIMB AMPUTATION: http://www.healthquality.va.gov/amputation/amp_sum_508.pdf
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Gait Analysis in Lower-Limb Amputation and Prosthetic Rehabilitation. Alberto Esquenazi, MD: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1047965113000739
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University of Michigan Lower Extremity Clinic: In addition to amputation, our Lower Extremity Clinic cares for and treats patients with conditions such as leg and foot wounds, leg and foot deformities, peripheral vascular disease, foot pain and diabetic foot care. http://www.uofmhealth.org/medical-services/lower-extremity-amputation
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