So yesterday was my first appointment at the Limb Fitting Service. I was up with the lark and washed, dressed and breakfasted before 7:00 when we had been told the transport might arrive from. It arrived just before 8:30! Fortunately it gave me time to check my packed lunch. I decided it was technically challenging as it contained a yogurt but no spoon 🤣 so I sourced one before I masked up and went on my way.
Whilst I was late it was quite a relaxed atmosphere. The rules about masks were rigidly enforced and chairs wiped after people went to the relevant clinic.
Initially I saw the nurse who took my temperature and went over medical history. As it is part of the same Trust that did the amputation I always find this going back to year dot a bit weird. There were also questions about one's education and career. She then took off the dressing, declared herself happy with the way things were healing and said she didn't think it needed a dressing. However, when I got back to rehab it was sterilised and redressed, and in all honesty I prefer that after a week of IV antibiotics and no showers!
Next was an OT. She talked about aims and goals. TBH one's aims are to resume one's normal life. There might be pictures of people snowboarding but I am sure their hair isn't greying! There was also a "Cognitive and Memory" test. At the end she said "You know what I think you have got the highest score ever"! The purpose of this test apparently is to ensure the person is capable of putting on and taking off the leg correctly, and of caring for the stump and prosthesis. Obviously a partner or carer can be involved in this.
Then onto the physio. This was quite hard going. The hardest was standing on one leg holding one parallel bar and touching the physio's gloved hand as they moved it up, down, left, right, etc. When she led it as high as she could I just reached higher (to show off).
There was an offer of seeing a psychologist but I declined this.
It wa agreed I had passed all the tests to get a prothesis so it was off to the casting room. Here they take various measurements before talking a plaster cast of the stump to make the socket for the top of the prothesis that fits your leg.
I go back for a fitting in just over two weeks and all being well take it "home"!
Then an hours wait for transport and back for a few socially distanced high fives!
Written by
MichaelJH
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Thanks for the update, sounds like a busy and full day and good progress is being made. Glad to hear that the wound issues now seem to be over. Just got to wait 2 weeks for the fitting. Onward and upward.
That was such a great read, congratulations on such a productive day. You must be thrilled, it’s been a difficult few weeks but now things are really moving. Getting high scores on those Cognitive and memory tests are just another great pat on the back.
Another couple of weeks and you will have your made for you leg, and then your ready to get going.
Again fabulous news bet you will sleep well tonight.
Sounds like it's going really well Michael.Very reassuring news about your cognitive and memory test too.With regards to the psychologist I think a lot of people need to consider the emotional impact an amputation has on them but if you feel fully reconciled that is good.Hope your recovery continues in the same good form.
You sound so positive Michael, I am glad you had a good day, you must feel so reassured now you have been measured up for your new limb. The 2 weeks will soon pass. Take care, keep safe, Ruth
Well done! Reminds me of getting my spare part, albeit a breast prosthesis. It was all quite surreal. I had choices to make for a part that could make me look whole again. But it did! That was 32 years ago. I've been so lucky. Losing a part of me saved my life. I wish you all the best.
Sounds like a positive & thorough appointment. Great for you to be able to see & hear some progress. Congrats on the high score too - perhaps you could aim to go on ‘The Chase’😉
Lovely to read such a positive post from you after all the doom and gloom that is around mainly from people who have nothing to moan about. All the best, you deserve it. x
I have been told it is very different to the temporary leg which is heavier, stops you using your knee and at times gives a sinking feeling as it is pneumatic. In fact I think the movement caused some of my issues.
You are an inspiration Michael. Very pleased for you!
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