Amputee Life

Phantom limb syndrome is a condition in which patients experience sensations, painful or otherwise, in a limb that doesn’t exist. It can be a debilitating condition that makes the road to recovery challenging. Furthermore, there seems to be a connection between the presence of phantom limb syndrome and the development of one or more mental disorders.

Previous studies have pointed to using prosthetic limbs to improve quality of life, but how can using a prosthetic limb daily influence quality of life? Researchers sought to find out.

Lower-limb amputees sometimes develop foot pronation, a condition where most of the weight is on the inside of the foot when walking. Overpronation increases an individual’s risk of injury in the foot or the leg, so correcting it with exercise and using orthotic insoles is imperative.

New Mexico-based teen Bryce Bourdieu is determined to return to the saddle and win wearing a prosthetic leg. This dream keeps him going despite being tramped by a horse during starting-gate practice and being amputated below the knee.

Have you always wanted to make exercising a habit but could never get around to it? Here's some good news: doing one-minute bursts of vigorous physical activity three times a day can help you live healthier and longer. You can reap the benefits by simply going about your day and picking up the pace when walking or climbing stairs.