How to Help a Child Adjust to a Prosthesis

Undergoing an amputation and wearing a prosthesis is an adjustment for anyone but it presents special challenges for children. Not only will a child have to deal with the physical recovery from the amputation but he or she will have to adjust physically and emotionally to the prosthesis. Self-esteem may be a concern especially for a teenager. There are steps to take to help a child cope with wearing a prosthesis.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Keep the age of the child in mind. A younger child may be scared of what is happening and not fully understand. A teenager may worry how his peers will react. Discuss concerns ahead of time and ways to cope in an age appropriate manner.
   
   
2. Have your child fitted for their prosthesis within a year of their amputation. Waiting too long may make it more difficult for your child to adjust. Talk to your child’s doctor regarding a specific timeline.
   
   
3. Be patient with your child. It may take some time to physically adapt to the prosthesis. A physical therapist or specialist in prosthetics will work with your child to help her physically get used to the prosthesis.
   
   
4. Use play therapy for younger children. Enlist help from a child life specialist at your child’s hospital. Play therapy helps children understand what will happen and allows them to express and work through their fears. An example of play therapy is having your child pretend to put a prosthesis on a doll.
5. Encourage normal activities. Your child may need to make some adjustments in activities when wearing a prosthesis but it may still be possible to do many of the same activities. Encourage peer relationships. Keep in mind a child needs to feel like a regular kid.
6. Talk about teasing. Depending on the age of your child they may experience some hurtful remarks from their classmates. Discuss ways to handle teasing such as walking away, using humor or ignoring comments.
7. Get support. Contact the Amputee Collation of American. They can provide information on support groups and summer camps for kids.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware your child may find they prefer not to wear the prosthesis. Some people adapt to losing a limb and function better without a prosthesis. If your child functions better without one don’t force him to wear it. Discuss concerns with your child’s doctor.