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April is Limb Loss & Limb Difference Awareness Month

April is Limb Loss & Limb Difference Awareness Month, a time for us to raise awareness, celebrate the strength and resilience of those living with limb loss or limb difference, and show solidarity with these individuals who face unique challenges every day. Whether someone is living with limb loss due to amputation or was born with a limb difference, it is a month for understanding, compassion, and empowerment.

At Winnipeg Prosthetics and Orthotics (WinPO), we are proud to be part of the journey for individuals living with limb loss or limb difference. Our team is the largest and most experienced team of Certified Prosthetists, Orthotists and Registered Technicians in Manitoba. We are committed to offering personalized care for every individual that we work with, offering support and expert care every step of the way.

Recognizing the Challenges of Limb Loss and Limb Difference

Did you know that in Canada, approximately 227,000[1] people are living with limb loss or a limb difference? One of the leading causes of non-traumatic amputations in Canada is diabetes, which affects an estimated 3.7 million[2] Canadians. With 1 in 5[2] people living with diabetes developing a foot ulcer, which, if left untreated, can potentially lead to limb amputation—many Canadians face the possibility of living with limb loss.

Living with limb loss or a limb difference presents daily challenges that many of us may never fully understand. These challenges can range from physical barriers, such as navigating mobility and functionality, to emotional struggles, including adjusting to a new body image or dealing with social perceptions. These experiences vary greatly from person to person.

Start with Empathy & Understanding

In this month of awareness, we encourage empathy and understanding for individuals who navigate these realities. Everyone’s experience is unique, but one thing is certain: the courage, determination, and strength displayed by people living with limb loss or limb difference is inspiring. It’s a reminder that no matter the challenges, they continue to live life fully and with purpose.

Whether you're the person experiencing limb loss or someone who supports them, remember that kindness and open-mindedness go a long way.

Taking the time to listen, understand, and provide a safe space for someone to share their journey is powerful. It's not just about prosthetics and orthotics; it's about the emotional and psychological support that comes with accepting one’s body and capabilities.

Empowering Individuals with the Right Support

One of the most powerful ways to support someone living with limb loss or a limb difference is by empowering them. This can come in many forms, but for many of the patients that we work with, it starts with the ability to regain independence through mobility. Prosthetics and orthotics provide the support that individuals need to enhance their quality of life, from improving mobility to alleviating pain or discomfort.

As Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists, this is where we come in. Our Winnipeg Prosthetic and Orthotics team is trained and experienced in delivering the best care for individuals living with limb loss, limb difference or congenital limb conditions.

Our team works closely with each patient to design and fit a prosthesis or orthosis that is customized to not only fit comfortably but to also help you achieve your personal goals. Whether you're looking to return to daily activities, improve your mobility, or enhance your athletic performance, we are here to help you at every stage of the process.

Resources for Living with Limb Loss or Limb Difference

We believe that education and awareness are key to living life fully. Whether you are living or supporting someone living with limb loss or limb difference, remember that you are not alone. Here are some great resources online to check out.

The War Amps - provides people with amputations and their families with invaluable resources on living with amputation. They have many downloadable sheets and booklets covering a range of helpful topics including healthy living for amputees, daily living aids and information on living with an upper or lower limb amputation.
Wounds Canada - an association that is dedicated to the advancement of wound prevention and management.
Accessible Sport Connection Manitoba - or better known as ASC Manitoba, is an organization that celebrates and supports Manitoba's accessible sport community, working to ensure that individuals of all abilities have equal opportunities to participate in sport and recreation.

Last but not least, you have the team at Winnipeg Prosthetics & Orthotics to rely on! We are always here to help. Contact us for a consultation, book in with your prosthetist or orthotist and let us support you and your loved ones in living your life to the fullest.

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