Accidents, diabetes, and gangrene are a few of the reasons why a foot amputation might be necessary.If it was done to save your life and you accept it, you will live the life that was saved.You can enjoy a long and fruitful life with the help of rehabilitation and support.
Step 1: Take pain killers.
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics after your surgery.For the sake of your health and safety, you should only take the pain relief prescribed by your doctor.If your doctor thinks it's best to use aspirin, it should only be used.Don't become addicted to painkillers.If you attempt to stop them, they are known to cause strong withdrawal.
Step 2: Do physical therapy exercises.
While you are in the hospital, you will work with physical therapists to relearn how to walk again.Once you get home, your physical therapist will suggest exercises to practice.Individualized rehabilitation plans will be developed for each patient.Walking with parallel bars, laying in different positions, and learning how to get out of bed are some of the exercises that may be included.
Step 3: Meet with a specialist.
After your operation, a specialist will meet with you to discuss fitting and using a missing foot.As soon as ten to fourteen days after your operation, you may be able to wear a replacement foot.Your doctor will help you decide which one will be most comfortable for you.Practice wearing a foot that isn't real.It will take some time to get used to the device, but physical therapy and persistence will help.
Step 4: You should learn to deal with phantom pain.
Phantom pain is the sensation of pain from a limb that is no longer present.A physical issue may arise after an amputation.Some people find that phantom pain becomes less severe over time, without any specific treatment.If you are bothered by phantom pain, your doctor can come up with a treatment plan that involves medication and therapy.As the brain and nervous system adjust to the loss of a limb, phantom pain is a common physical response.Drugs used to treat phantom pain include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, narcotics, and muscle relaxants.The use of a "mirror box", which reflects your remaining limb to give the illusion of having both, is one of the therapies that can help relieve phantom pain.
Step 5: You can see a therapist or counselor.
Losing part of your body can be difficult.Meeting with a therapist will help your emotional health after the operation, as well as alleviate issues like feeling phantom pain or sensations in your amputation limb.Emotions such as sadness or frustration are common after amputations.Counseling and support from family and other caregivers can help you deal with emotional and mental health issues.While you are adjusting, friends and family can help.
Step 6: Look for a support group.
Meeting with others who have had amputations can help overcome the physical and emotional challenges of losing a limb.Ask your doctor if there are any support groups in your area.You can find someone to talk to who has had an amputation through the National Peer Network.
Step 7: Try relaxing techniques.
Being relaxed and meditating can help you deal with the physical and emotional difficulties of losing a foot.A simple and effective way to start meditating is to sit in a chair, cross-legged, or kneeling.Pay attention to your breathing.Your mind will wander eventually.Bring your attention back to your breathing when you catch your mind wandering.Don't judge your thoughts or dwell on them.If you are trying it for the first time, continue the process for five minutes.At least once a day, repeat this practice.If you want, you can gradually increase the length of the sessions.
Step 8: Try breathing exercises.
It is possible to relieve stress and pain by practicing deep breathing.Simple breathing exercises will help you relax.Try to focus all your attention on breathing.Listen to and feel the air move as you exhale and inhale.Slow down, even breathe.Imagine your lungs filling with air.
Step 9: The focus should be on positive things.
Amputation leads to life changes.It doesn't have to stop you from doing the things you want to.Try to do things that make you happy.If you want to feel better, make time to appreciate your sense of humor and focus on your abilities, strengths, and best features.Whatever makes you laugh, watch a funny movie.If you enjoy reading books, playing games, watching movies, or any other hobbies, set aside time for them.These activities will distract you from what is bothering you, and give you time to think about what makes you happy.Don't worry about the loss, focus on your best features.You might have a great personality, or be looked up to by other people, if you work hard.You have talents, features, and personal characteristics that are part of who you are.To remind yourself of the things you are looking forward to, write out a list of your personal values.A gratitude journal is a good way to keep track of what you're grateful for.When you're discouraged, remember these things so that you can remember the good things in your life.If you can't remember to journal daily, apps such as Gratitude Journal can help.
Step 10: You can learn everything you can about living with a amputation.
Knowledge is power, they say, and learning as much as you can about your amputation and how to deal with it will remind you of the power you have to live an active and fulfilled life.You can keep in touch with your doctor, therapists, support groups and family about your progress.
Step 11: You have to work on adjusting your lifestyle.
If you have lost your foot, you will most likely have to change your lifestyle in ways that are tied into your identity.You may need to stop or change activities that you used to do.It is not always easy to view yourself and your world in a new way.As you discover new, exciting hobbies and abilities, try to stay positive.