Limb loss is much more common than many people realize, and the numbers are growing. By learning the facts about limb loss, we can start to be better advocates for our friends and family, feel less alone during our journey with limb loss, and raise awareness through meaningful, fact-based discussion.
(Washington, DC, February 15, 2024) The Amputee Coalition’s commissioned study titled, Prevalence of Limb Loss and Limb Difference in the United States: Implications for Public Policy has just been published. Through collaboration with Avalere, part of Avalere Health, a US-based healthcare consulting firm, the Coalition conducted an analysis of insurance claims data to estimate the number of people currently living with limb loss and limb difference.
The findings indicate that in the United States today there are more than 5.6 million++ people living with limb loss and limb difference, of those are nearly 2.3 million+ people living with limb loss and another 3.4 million+ people living with limb difference. “Historically, individuals born with limb differences are a subgroup that has been all but ignored in previous research,” said Natalie Harold, Resource Development Manager. The “plus-plus” part of this 5.6 million++ figure acknowledges that the known estimate does not include everyone. Most notably, by using insurance claims data the study could only capture people covered under specific types of insurance. The analysis could not account for individuals who are uninsured or covered by Veterans Affairs or TRICARE. Data sources for this report include Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance claims.
“Information about those born with limb differences or those who undergo amputations is not data that is collectively tracked in a systematic way in the US. With this new information and evidence of increased prevalence we know there is a tremendous need for increased support and education, ensuring those living with limb loss and limb difference can thrive in their lives as they choose. We are now able to ground our work to improve quality of life outcomes and health policies for our community and those at risk of amputation with this prevalence data,” said Ashlie White, Chief Strategy and Programs Officer.
Prior to this critical study, researchers have relied on outdated predictions for estimating the limb loss population and the limited data that is available on the limb difference population within the United States. Updated prevalence estimates are needed to inform national advocacy efforts and policy initiatives that will increase the support the Coalition can provide to the growing community of people with limb loss and limb difference and improve their access to care. Gaining a better understanding of this incredibly broad community was the primary motivation behind the investment and the effort undertaken to yield this new information. With this endeavor, the Coalition remains the most trusted source of limb loss and limb difference statistics.
Key Information:
5.6 million ++ Americans are Living with Limb Loss and Limb Difference
2.3 million+ Americans are Living with Limb Loss
3.4 million+ Americans are Living with Limb Difference
Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance claims were utilized for this analysis.
The claims analysis did not account for individuals who are uninsured or covered by Veterans Affairs or TRICARE, accounting for the ++ in the total population of unaccounted Americans living with limb loss and limb difference.
Amputee Coalition: The Leading Voice on Limb Loss and Limb Difference The Amputee Coalition is the only national nonprofit that serves all individuals who experience limb loss and/or limb difference. Our mission is to support, educate, and advocate for people who have limb loss and/or limb difference. We work to provide vital resources to people who have limb loss and/or limb difference, as well as their families and caregivers. With these resources, they can recover, readjust, and live the life they most want. Learn more at www.amputee-coalition.org.
You should consult your physician or health care professional before starting any fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. This is particularly true if you (or your family) have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, or if you have ever experienced chest pain when exercising or in the past month when not engaged in physical activity. Also be sure to consult your physician or health care professional if you smoke, have high cholesterol, are obese, or have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in physical activity.
Do not start any fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it.
If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately.
If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional.
The days of the “No pain, no gain!” approach to exercise are over. These physical fitness experts are developing fun and do-able at home workouts for people recovering from a lower limb injury, amputation, living with a disability, sitting in wheelchair, or just sitting at their desks at home! Exercise does not need to cause unnecessary pain or harm to be beneficial. According to the CDC:
Significant health benefitscan be obtained with a moderate amount of physical activity, preferably daily. The same moderate amount of activity can be obtained in longer sessions of moderately intense activities (such as 30-40 minutes of wheeling oneself in a wheelchair) or in shorter sessions of more strenuous activities (such as 20 minutes of wheelchair basketball).
Additional health benefits can be gained through greater amounts of physical activity. People who can maintain a regular routine of physical activity that is of longer duration or of greater intensity are likely to derive greater benefit.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease and of developing high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes.
Can help people with chronic, disabling conditions improve their stamina and muscle strength.
Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves mood, and promotes general feelings of well-being.
Helps control joint swelling and pain associated with arthritis.
Can help reduce blood pressure in some people with hypertension.
As with any workout, start small (5-10 minutes) and build up as you become more accustomed to the moves. Remember to be kind to yourself, and congratulate yourself for making positive steps to maintain your health. The more regularly you exercise, the greater the health benefits.
1. 30 Minute Seated Cardio Boxing Workout for Disabled, Injured, Paraplegic or Amputee
This is a “Cardio Kickboxing” workout (the “kick” is for kicking ass). You don’t need equipment or even full mobility to do this workout. Just a place to sit and the desire to move.
2. Seated Exercise for Obesity and Limited Mobility
If you are chair ridden and need a very low starting point then this workout is for you!
3.Fuzion Fitness with Alexis #31: Chair Workout – November 2015
Whether you want to sneak in some extra exercise at the office from your desk chair or are dealing with an injury or limitation that requires you to remain seated, this routine can offer some seated alternatives to your favorite body weight exercises.
4. Lisa Ericson’s Seated Aerobic Workout
This amazingly 80’s workout video provides high intensity aerobic exercise for anyone, regardless of fitness level or disability, without the use of the legs.
5. Chair Yoga – Gentle Yoga For People With Disabilities
This seated yoga video is for people suffering from recent knee surgeries/injuries, and/or people with disabilities. This 30 minute yoga flow takes all pressure off and knees and allows us to meet our bodies exactly where we’re at, whether that be in crutches, because you have to be seated for long periods of time, or after having knee surgery or knee injuries.
6. Bonus! 20 Min Chair Exercises Sitting Down Workout – Seated Exercise for Seniors, Elderly, & EVERYONE ELSE
Do you have a favorite workout video or exercise? What activities have helped you stay active and motivated to move? Let us know in the comments.
You will have a prosthesis for the rest of your life. That is why it is critically important to know you have the right practitioner who will be able to meet your individual needs for a long time to come.
At Access Prosthetics, we are a good resource for amputees seeking advice and new care options. However, we encourage you to research all medical providers. Should you be uncertain or uncomfortable with a treatment plan, consider securing a second or even a third opinion.
The following is a guide to help you choose the right provider to best serve your unique situation:
Is your practitioner credentialed?
Ask about certifications and look for ABC- and BOC-certified providers as these certifications ensure the highest standards of education, training, and professionalism. It is important to find out if you are seeking the help of a certified prosthetist or orthotist who have the acronyms C.Ped, CO, CP or CPO associated with their names.
Make sure your prosthetist has a strong track record.
Every profession has good and bad practitioners. Most patients never seek reviews of providers or ask for references. This is a critical step in securing the right provider. The right experience and approach can make all the difference in the world, especially when fitting prosthesis that are meant to last for many years.
Find a respectful communicator.
Regardless of the type of practitioner you need, you’ll want to be sure you can communicate effectively in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Many patients complain that they can’t understand “medical speak” or they don’t feel providers listen to them, or give them enough time. If this is the case, it may be time to find another provider.
Find a prosthetist who will give you options.
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution, or a singular solution. A good prosthetist will give you options based on assessing a wide range of variables that affect how you live and what you expect from a prosthesis. It is also important to find a provider who will spend as much time assessing your individual needs as he or she spends offering solutions. If you are being given only one solution, seek another opinion to ensure you get the best option for your life.
Consider your practitioner’s location.
You will be making many trips to your prosthetist, especially in the early stages of fitting and adjusting your prosthesis for long-term use. A practice that is easy to find and can be driven to easily is important. It is also important to find a local provider who is vested in the community. That way, you are assured a relationship with a provider that will be there for the long run.
