Limb Loss Rehab at Premier
April is limb loss awareness month and we thought we would use this opportunity to share one of our patient’s stories. Rodney’s story is an inspiration to all of us at Premier, both therapists and other patients alike, on the value of hard work, perseverance, and a positive attitude despite what life may bring.
Rodney came to Premier after an incident at work resulting in his left leg and knee being amputated despite multiple attempts to prevent the need for amputation. When he first arrived, Rodney was utilizing a power wheelchair and could only stand with support of parallel bars. He quickly progressed past all the original goals we set for him. Ultimately, he reached the point where he had achieved his desired level of independence walking around his house without a cane and walking in the community with a cane. He started driving again and regained a lot of the independence he had prior to his injury. This progress took place over a year of hard work and patience as he gained strength and increased walking endurance with consistent physical therapy.
Throughout his time at Premier, Rodney transitioned from a straight, locked prosthetic knee that did not bend, a microprocessor knee that allowed for controlled knee bending while walking, going up and down stairs, and other activities, and finally to a microprocessor knee and ankle that would “talk” to each other and allow for even more mobility which allowed Rodney to get back to doing even more things he wanted to do with ease.
The changing prostheses lead to low back and ankle pain as a result of altered mechanics and muscular demand. We were also able to address this pain during his time at Premier. He is not the only one, as many individuals with amputation suffer from additional orthopedic issues such as low back, hip, knee, and shoulder pain as a result of altered mechanics with walking that occurs as individuals start using their prostheses.
One of the amazing things about Rodney was that he wasn’t afraid; he was always willing and ready to try any and all ideas we had in mind. He continually had a positive attitude and saw the best in every situation despite facing challenging times. As a result, his courage and relentlessness helped him to progress much further than initially expected. Rodney’s story is one of many that we have had the privilege of witnessing and being a part of here at Premier Physical Therapy.
Dr. Andy Beardslee, PT, DPT, MSCS