Empowerment and Education the Goals of Limb Loss Awareness Month
April 12th, 2021 | Published in Blog
April is Limb Loss Awareness Month, a time to celebrate those impacted by limb loss and limb difference. Initiated by the Amputee Coalition in 2010, it was not only designed to raise awareness about limb loss but also limb loss prevention.
People with the greatest risk are those with diabetes or vascular impairment, such as peripheral arterial disease. Cancer is another cause, but so is trauma from lawnmower and farming accidents to motorcycle and car crashes.
According to the Amputee Coalition:
- There are 2.1 million people living with limb loss in the U.S.
- Approximately 185,000 amputations occur each year in the U.S.
- 507 people lose a limb each day.
- 1,558 military personnel lost a limb as a result of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- 6 Million people will be living with limb loss by 2050.
- 36% or people living with limb loss experience depression.
- 85% of lower-limb amputations are preceded by a foot ulcer.
- Vascular disease, including diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, is the biggest cause of limb loss (54%), followed by trauma (45%). Cancer accounts for 2% of amputations.
The goals of Limb Loss Awareness Month are to heighten public awareness about limb loss and increase people’s understanding of prevention-especially those most at risk. The Amputee Coalition also works to ensure that amputees do not have to go through this journey alone.
The Amputee Coalition also offers a vast library of resources at its National Limb Loss Resource Center. The Center offers informational materials, educational webinars, links to support groups, guides for pain management, mental health and wellness, and information and referral specialists.
While COVID-19 has limited what we can do for in-person events, we encourage amputees to share their limb loss stories with others by using social media outlets.
At Muilenburg Prosthetics, our mission is to treat those with limb loss with the highest degree of care and technology. We take pride in our patients who regain their mobility and do not let their limb differences keep them from living their life to the fullest.
Do you have a question about prosthetic care or want to schedule a free evaluation? We are happy to be of service.