Limb Difference and Amputation
What is Limb Difference and Amputation?
- Pronounced lim di·fuh·ruhns and am·pyoo·tay·shn
In children, ‘amputee’ or amputations are typically called limb differences. This is because most children with limb difference are born this way.
- Limb difference occurs when part or all of a child’s limb does not completely form during pregnancy (congenital) or as a result of a major injury (acquired).
- An amputation is when part or all of a limb is removed.
Children with limb difference may use prosthetics or orthotics to access the sport. Younger athletes will typically compete in their everyday prosthetic. As athletes advance in skills they can investigate and use more high-tech prosthetics such as a running blade.
Causes of Limb Difference and Amputations
- There isn’t one known cause of limb differences that occur at birth, and the condition varies from child to child.
- Limb amputation is caused usually because of injury, infection, trauma or because of a limb difference.
Terms to Know
Prosthetic: A device that replaces a body part (e.g. a running blade).
Orthotic: A device that supports a body part (e.g. a brace).
Orthotist/Prosthetist: A specialist who designs and fits an orthotic or prosthetic.
Stump: The body part that fits into the socket of the device.
Socket: The hard part of the prosthetic (often carbon fiber) that moulds around the stump.
Benefits of Athletics
Health
Children with limb difference or amputations may experience pain which can be helped with regular exercise. If athletes indicate that an activity causes pain, listen to them and talk to them and their parent/s.
Balance and coordination
Balance is commonly affected if the athlete is missing some or all of a leg. This can be due to an imbalance between the left and right side or reliance on one side. Balance and coordination may be affected if the athlete is missing all or part of their arm as the arm is used as a counter balance in many athletics events. Athletics can improve balance and coordination through body organisation and strength development.
Sources
Limbs4kids – https://limbs4kids.org.au/
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