What are some unique problems that face upper limb amputees compared to lower limb amputees?
Most causes of upper limb amputees in industrialized countries are due to traumatic episodes as opposed to lower limb causes which are more likely due to diseases such as complications from diabetes, PVD and infections. Motor vehicle, motorcycle and heavy machinery accidents are common reasons why people lose one or both upper limbs. Other traumatic causes can be from explosions or chemical, thermal or electrical burns. Limb loss from animal attacks is relatively uncommon. Certain diseases such as tumors, blood vessel disorders and infections comprise the second most common reason why people experience an upper limb amputation. Congenital upper limb deficiency is an absence of a limb that occurs prior to birth and is much less common than the other causes listed; however, they are discussed under the pediatric amputee section. Since upper limb amputations are most often due to trauma, there is no time to prepare the individual regarding the expectations of living with limb loss. In the
