When it comes to injuries leading to a traumatic amputation, motor vehicle collisions, industrial and farm accidents and motorcycle crashes remain among the top causes. Anyone who has lost a limb in such a situation may expect to confront physical, psychological as well as financial challenges, adjusting to their new reality.
Many times, negligence on the part of another person led to this outcome. And as a result, the victims must cope with what happened through months of treatment and a lifetime of trying to understand what happened.
Surgeries and psychological distress
Trauma represents the second-leading cause of limb loss in the U.S., ranking behind vascular disease, according to Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit The Amputee Coalition. Of the estimated 185,000 amputations that take place in the country annually, roughly 45% — more than 83,000 – are due to trauma-related incidents.
Among the challenges faced by someone coping with limb loss include:
- Surgeries: Many procedures are possible following the initial removal of an arm or leg. Follow-up procedures may include reconstructive surgery and skin grafts as well as the possibility of getting fitted for a prosthetic limb.
- Long stays in medical facilities: Whether in hospitals or transitional care units, the injured can expect weeks or months in health care facilities along with treatment from a number of medical professionals.
- Psychological distress: Such a severe injury may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, self-imposed social isolation and severe depression. Seeking treatment and advice from a mental health professional may help.
- Ongoing therapy: Physical and psychological healing is necessary to heal. Following the treatment and advice from physical, occupational and mental health therapists is essential.
- Adjusting to a prosthetic limb: Not all amputees can be fitted with a prosthetic limb. However, the ones who do must grow accustomed to this new limb.
- Managing daily and routine tasks: Learning to walk and drive with a prosthetic limb may take time. You also must relearn tasks such as holding a utensil, brushing your teeth and buttoning clothes.
Every day, you will face challenges after the loss of a limb. How you cope with these challenges is critical to your physical and mental well-being.
Adjusting and seeking legal advice
No matter what, the physical reminders of your injury will always be there. But, in time and with a great amount of dedication and support, you can successfully make this new life adjustment and even possibly view this now as an inconvenience. But remember, to seek the advice of an experienced attorney, too.
