Elevate Awareness During April, Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month

The Importance of Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month

More than 5 million Americans live with limb loss or limb difference, and raising awareness helps to provide increased access to assistive technology and mental health support. Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month is also an excellent time to advocate for insurance fairness regarding prosthetic limbs.

Preventing Limb Loss

Diabetes is the leading cause of limb loss in the United States, and a foot ulcer precedes 85% of lower limb amputations. Many amputations are preventable with proper diabetic foot care and healthy lifestyle choices. April is a great time to spread awareness to people with limb differences and those without about the importance of staying physically fit and active.

How to Participate During Limb Loss Awareness Month

One of the best things you can do during LLLDAM is to educate others and share your experiences to inspire others. Social media is one of the easiest ways to spread helpful information to many people. The Amputee Coalition has several resources to share on your social media, including images and daily challenges and activities, like Wear Orange Wednesdays.

Become a Certified Peer Visitor

Certified Peer Visitors (CPV) are an invaluable support element for many people living with limb loss or limb difference. Since 1993, over 1,500 CPV have been through the training program and visited other limb loss and limb difference community members or their families to offer support and provide resource information. Many members of the CPV program visit people at rehab facilities and VA hospitals.

Ways to Support a Friend or Family Member with Limb Loss

When someone you care about loses a limb, you may be unsure how to offer support. Educating yourself is an essential step. The National Limb Loss Resource Center® is a fantastic place to find information about various limb loss topics. You may not know what to say, but you must know what not to say. Avoid patronizing statements or taking their independence away by doing everything for them. You can also ask the person what they need from you regarding physical or emotional support.

Contact Us to Learn More About Limb Loss and Limb Difference

Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics is family-owned and offers compassionate care, education, and connection to community resources. We provide services for children and adults from two convenient locations in Edgewood, Kentucky, and Lawrenceburg, Indiana.

Contact us today with your questions or to schedule an appointment. Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics is happy to serve Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.