The first stage of recovery is often focused on healing, rest, and learning to navigate daily life after amputation.

It is common to feel eager to “move on” or return to normal activities as quickly as possible. However, healing takes time, and your body has been through a significant physical and emotional experience.

During this stage, you may experience:

• Swelling and changes in your residual limb

• Surgical pain and discomfort

• Phantom sensations or phantom pain

• Fatigue

• Emotional ups and downs

• Frequent medical appointments

Remember that healing is not a race.

Progress may feel slow at times, but every day of recovery helps build the foundation for what comes next.

Helpful Reminder:

Your job right now is not to have all the answers.

Your job is to heal.