Amputation
Congenital amputation (Limb deficiency): When an individual is born without a limb. Congenital amputations are classified according to the site or the level of limb absence.
Acquired amputation: When an individual has a limb removed by operation due to trauma, infection, diabetes and/or vascular impairment.
COMMON ABBREVIATIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AMPUTATIONS:
AK: Above or through the knee joint
BK: Below the knee, but through or above the ankle joint
AE: Above or through the elbow joint
BE: Below the elbow, but through or above the wrist joint
A prosthesis is a substitute for a missing body part. The purpose of the prosthetic device is to enable the individual to function with as few restrictions as possible.
MEDICAL CONSIDERATIONS
| Edema (swelling) of the stump | Replacement of the device due to growth, especially in children | Poor circulation at the level of amputation |
| Pressure sores from the prosthetic device |
Atrophy of musculature
in or around the affected limb or joint |
Contractures |
TEACHING TIPS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AMPUTATIONS
| Develop strength and flexibility of the unaffected limb | Enable the individual to effectively use the prosthesis | Introduce exercises to strengthen muscles around the stump |
| Introduce activities that will improve balance and enhance ambulation | Provide opportunities for independent work (i.e., obstacle courses, circuit training) | Supplement physical education instruction with activities that involve gross motor movement |
| Perform physical activity safely | Develop and maintain cardiovascular endurance | Teach appropriate techniques for falling |
| Shorten the distance and/or decrease the speed of an activity for the individual (primarily for individuals with lower limb deficiencies) | Provide activities in which the individual can succeed or perform equal to or better than other pupils | Demonstrate and encourage a normal gait pattern, especially for individuals with lower limb problems |
Links
Orthotics and Prosthetics Athletic Fund
Information on this sheet contains only suggested guidelines. Each person must be considered individually, and in many cases, a physician's written consent should be obtained. Developed by Texas Woman's University Graduate Adapted Physical Education Program in cooperation with Denton ISD (French, 1997).