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Amputee

Ask

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Would it be OK to spend a minute talking about something many patients with lower limb amputations find really helpful?

Insight

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As lower limb amputations affect an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.

Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.

If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.

Did you know?

The least active individuals stand to gain the most from a small increase in physical activity

<40% of lower limb amputees are sufficiently active and 33% are considered sedentary

At least 150 minutes moderate intensity activity per week is recommended for substantial health gains

Real impact

‘If only other amputees would give it ago. I’m not talking about being an ‘athlete’. But if they went for a walk every day for half an hour it’ll really impact their well-being. It affects mine.’

‘When I looked down now, I see my legs. I’m in charge of my legs. My legs are not in charge of me. But I can only do that by trying to be as active as a possibly can.’

‘If I keep my body in a good condition …then I can walk for a full day on my prosthesis. Thus, if I’m more active, I can use my prosthesis better.’

Explain

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Many people with lower limb amputations find that moving more helps them manage their condition and symptoms, as well as improving their general wellbeing. I wonder what you make of that?

Insight

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Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.

Did you know?

The least active individuals stand to gain the most from a small increase in physical activity

<40% of lower limb amputees are sufficiently active and 33% are considered sedentary

At least 150 minutes moderate intensity activity per week is recommended for substantial health gains

Real impact

‘If only other amputees would give it ago. I’m not talking about being an ‘athlete’. But if they went for a walk every day for half an hour it’ll really impact their well-being. It affects mine.’

‘When I looked down now, I see my legs. I’m in charge of my legs. My legs are not in charge of me. But I can only do that by trying to be as active as a possibly can.’

‘If I keep my body in a good condition …then I can walk for a full day on my prosthesis. Thus, if I’m more active, I can use my prosthesis better.’

Invite

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Would you be interested in talking a little more about how physical activity might help with your health and wellbeing on another visit?

Arranging follow up is important after a positively received 1-minute conversation. Offer a follow up opportunity with you or a colleague appropriate to the environment you work in and resources available.

“In the meantime I could give you some further information to read if that would be of interest”

Signpost the patient information section.

Insight

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Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.

Did you know?

The least active individuals stand to gain the most from a small increase in physical activity

<40% of lower limb amputees are sufficiently active and 33% are considered sedentary

At least 150 minutes moderate intensity activity per week is recommended for substantial health gains

Real impact

‘If only other amputees would give it ago. I’m not talking about being an ‘athlete’. But if they went for a walk every day for half an hour it’ll really impact their well-being. It affects mine.’

‘When I looked down now, I see my legs. I’m in charge of my legs. My legs are not in charge of me. But I can only do that by trying to be as active as a possibly can.’

‘If I keep my body in a good condition …then I can walk for a full day on my prosthesis. Thus, if I’m more active, I can use my prosthesis better.’