Peer support groups play a critical role in empowering amputees throughout the process of recovery and healing following the loss of a limb. Connecting with individuals who have felt the same frustrations, experienced the same challenges, and who can offer genuine support and informed guidance for your journey can make all the difference for a successful recovery and optimal quality of life. 

Whether you are feeling isolated and uncertain at the beginning of the journey, overwhelmed about the future ahead, or would like to celebrate victories with a group of peers, you don’t have to go through these emotional experiences alone! A support group may be just what you need, and there are options to participate in person, online, or through your prosthetist and/or health care team.

Peer Mentorships

If you feel overwhelmed or intimidated in a group setting, you may choose to seek the support of a peer mentor. This type of one-on-one support connects amputees with veteran members of the limb loss or limb difference community for one-on-one connection. This relationship can be incredibly empowering and comforting for new prosthetic users who benefit from the practical experience and emotional support of someone who has experienced similar emotional and physical challenges. Working with a peer mentor can make a huge difference in how fast individual challenges can be overcome and individual goals can be met. As Helen Keller, a famous ability rights activist once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Amputee Walking Schools

Amputee Walking Schools bring together therapists and individuals with limb loss/limb difference for mutually beneficial interaction and learning. During this unique program, our instructors teach exercises for amputees at every level to enhance their ability to fully use their prosthetic device with ease and purpose. Both amputees and physical therapists can learn and find support from one another during these programs. Our Amputee Walking Schools give participants the opportunity to gain new skills, knowledge, and confidence as well as foster interpersonal connections. We encourage amputees to attend Amputee Walking Schools as often as possible, because as your abilities improve, you can build on your progress and become more proficient in the use of your prosthetic device. 

Online Communities

In addition to in-person support groups and peer mentor programs, limb loss and limb difference communities are available online. This is an excellent option for those who have limited access to transportation, significant mobility limitations, live far from in-person groups, or simply prefer virtual over in-person groups. The Amputee Coalition provides easy access to online platforms. While on their site you can also find information and contacts for amputee support groups across the country, advocacy programs, healthcare information, current research projects, and a 2022 calendar with special events tailored to those with limb loss or limb difference. You can also check with your individual prosthetist who may have connections to additional online patient support programs.

Kenney Orthopedics coordinates peer mentorship programs and hosts Amputee Walking Schools at their locations in Kentucky, Indiana, and North Carolina. To find out more about amputee support groups and to meet any of your custom prosthetic or orthotic care needs, contact the team at Kenney Orthopedics. We are ready to help with our expertise, compassionate care, and support. Kenney Orthopedics has locations near Lexington, KY; Louisville, KY; Indianapolis, IN; and Charlotte, NC.