Living Life to the Fullest After Limb Salvage

A limb salvage procedure does not necessarily mean giving up the activities you love, according to a study performed by researchers at the Brooke Army Medical Center in Fort Sam Houston, TX. If you or a loved one ever has to have this procedure performed, this study should provide a great deal of hope.

Back in the Game

Many patients who have suffered an injury resulting in the need for a limb salvage procedure wish to get back to an athletic lifestyle, However, according to the study, there has not been a great deal of research performed regarding the percentage of people who have been able to once again participate in sports.

Researchers analyzed 10 patients who had lower extremity limb salvage and were at least three months removed from surgery. They not only went through intense rehabilitation, they were also outfitted with orthotic devices to augment strength. In addition, they were re-trained to find the proper gait that would help them run as comfortably as possible.

The results were impressive, to say the least. Of the 10 patients studied, eight of them had been able to return to some level of running while all 10 were able to resume weightlifting. Seven of the patients had returned to cycling, three to golf, two to playing softball and three to playing basketball. Two of the patients had even been able to complete a mini-triathlon.

This is not to suggest, of course, that everyone who undergoes a limb salvage procedure will be able to play a game of full-court basketball within three months. However, if you believe you will no longer be able to be active after having this type of operation, the results of this study should give you some hope.

If you would like more information about limb salvage or you would like to schedule a consultation, get in touch with the professionals at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center. Contact us online or call 972-318-2738 in Plano, 972-318-2738 in Lewisville or 972-318-2655 in Irving.