Clothing After Amputation: What I Wish I Knew (Episode 1)

Lisa, an above knee amputee, talks about clothing challenges that she wishes she knew about before having an amputation.
"What I Wish I Knew" is a video series for people who are faced with the challenges of complex diagnoses and walking impairments. Each video is an unscripted discussion of topics that real people have dealt with and continue to face each and every day. Our goal is that these videos would not only educate, but also empower.
For more information about Mission Gait, visit our website at:
www.missiongait.org
This video is made possible because of our donors. Consider supporting our work at: www.missiongait.org/donate

[@sueclark5763]

I had a working wardrobe with beautifully tailored dress pants, none of which fit over the flaming d@%n socket, even trying to get dressed first, then put the stinking thing on didn't work. Finally, out of desperation I found a totally great pants pattern, fitted to just below where the legs begin to flare, at about the bend in the leg. There were 3 different "views", straight leg, very slightly flared and flared enough to get past that obnoxious bulge and not have it show. The may be something of a throwback to the '60's, but definitely not "elephant bells"!! I've chosen the lighter weight poly gabardine, which wears like irn and washes beautifully. So at least I have a start on replacing my dress pants. Some of the nicer jackets I had still coordinate and that's a headstart on putting outfits together. Yes, I love my clothes! Decided since I was sewing anyway, I might as well replace some of the pieces that were getting rather worn, so I found a tank top pattern, bmore lit a simple sleeveless shell, and it only takes 1 yard of fabric, so I've been able to buy some lovely, more dressy fabrics to take a couple of outfits up as step. I've found a wonderful summer dress patter, sleeveless, small, loose turtleneck and have the fabric for about 4, not terribly long, but when I sit down, or don't put that leg on, it still drapes over my knee and covers the bottom of my leg. Since I've retired, I'm looking at some clothes that are a bit different, love the Oriental/Asian dresses and tops, just cut the side seams a bit looser. I ran across a patter or the '70's "Big Shirt" and am making both print and solids in that, they are actually cool during the summer, but a light sweater can be worn under it during the cooler weather. Try to keep most of my wardrobe somewhat coordinated/mix and match. I think, and this is just my opinion, this is the time to take extra care in my appearance, be it how I dress, keeping my hair done, jewelry, and a little make up. It helps SO much when you look in the mirror and that Lady looking back at you is pretty darn well put together. It's way too easy to allow yourself to start sliding downhill, you do this for YOU! One of my all-time favorite shoes is the black/white sling back spectator heels, have always had at least one pair in my closet most of the time. Well, snickers, I can't wear that heel, at least not yet!! So I found a pair of flats that, for now, will fill the bill. I may spend a bit more than usual on some things, but I feel that I'm worth it and do need a little boost every so often. The time and effort that goes into me is well worth it, especially now. Sorry this was so long...but this is an important time, it's been tough, so even if you aren't used to doing it, pamper yourself a little more, I guarantee it will make you feel better. If you sew, use it! Do you know someone who sews? Buy a cheap machine, learn, start with the simple things, it will be worth it. Don't overlook places like second hand stores and even yard sales for some really great finds.

[@MissionGait]

This is some really great advice! Thanks for sharing. We have also known people to sew zippers in the seams of pants so they can get tighter fitting clothing over their sockets.

[@philfrederickiii2320]

Having lost my leg in the summer, and wearing shorts until October, dressing wasn't a problem. When temperatures got colder, I of course began wearing long pants, but getting in and out became frustrating. I found that putting my prosthesis inside the legging could only be done from the cuff end, similar to the way a fireman puts on his protective pants with the boots remaining within the pants. If I'm wearing the same jeans on consecutive days, I'll just leave the prosthetic within the jeans overnight.

[@MissionGait]

Phil, thank you for this insight!

[@lisaowens6348]

Yeah I get so frustrated with jeans and certain types of dress clothes. We learn to adapt and figure out what works but I like the idea of leaving the pants on the prosthetic to make it easier. Thanks for adding things that work cause we can all use the ideas👍😀

[@bluedeva]

Try putting a plastic bag over the prosthetic foot and it will help leggings trousers and jeans and winter boots or wellingtons slip on easier. Also wrap your socket in cling film or Saran Wrap to stop the trouser riding up all the time Hope this helps

[@annetteslife]

I my have this in my foot. I was diagnosed with a bone infection on Friday. I hope I do not have to go through anything drastic. But I have that guy feeling

[@JoJo-xo6fh]

❤️🙏🏼

[@morgancalvi6675]

I have the same issue...Osteomyelitis. I am also a quadriplegic and never really felt the damage the bone infection was doing...and it ruined both legs and my right hip. Sadly, my ortho (like the gazillionith one) has ignored me all year (2021) after an ortho totally screwed up a take the infected hip implant out. My leg/hip broke and never healed. Don't ever come to Nova Scotia expecting health care. EDIT: November 02, 2022 I became a (right) hip disarticulate. There really aren't any videos on You Tube regarding tips and tricks for high level amputees. Anyone knowing of any, please let me know.

[@lisapearsall7277]

Hi Lisa, that's one of my main problems finding something to wear being an above knee amputee since June 2018. Just need someone to conversate with that knows what am going through. I be frustrated that I can't find the right pants and being set back from progress because of being in and out of hospital, trying to find the right shrinker that doesn't slide down, and among other things.

[@MissionGait]

Lisa, thanks for reaching out. Lisa from this video was a special guest for this video series and we have not been in recent contact with her. I did however speak to someone today who I think would be perfect for you to talk to, and she immediately offered to connect. Her name is Tracy and has been a part of several of our videos. She has an above knee amputation and would be a great person to discuss these things with. I prefer for people to not list their emails in the comment section, so I can get you connected if you fill out our contact us page on our Mission Gait website ( www.missiongait.org/contact-us ) Make sure to note that you connected through KZbin. Look forward to getting you connected!

[@nieskespears836]

Thanks! Is there a part 2 with pictures? I have the hardest time to find something cute. Used to wear skinny jeans, and dresses and high heels. Now need to find cute stuff with a different body image.

[@MissionGait]

Hello! While we don't have any content pertaining to outfit ideas, we think you might find a wonderful community with our friend Cosi. You can find her at @cositalks on Instagram and Cosi Talks on Facebook. She is an amputee specialist and hosts a weekly Zoom chat with a bunch of lovely ladies who are fellow amputees and might have helpful information for you and outfit suggestions. 😊