Life Care Center of La Center helps amputee get walking again

After undergoing a left below-knee amputation, Donald Breazeale came to Life Care Center of La Center, Kentucky, to get back to walking.

On July 2, 2021, Donald came to Life Care Center of La Center for physical and occupational therapies. When he arrived, he needed maximum assistance to put on his prothesis and take it off. He was experiencing pain and the potential for skin breakdown on the stump. He needed help to walk with his prosthesis as well.

The team at the facility addressed his pain and took precautions to take care of his skin. Therapists assessed his prosthesis and modified it, then trained him in how to use it. They used neuromuscular reeducation and retrained him in his self-care skills (activities of daily living) and in gait.

“Mr. Breazeale worked hard to learn how to properly don and doff his prosthesis,” said Elizabeth Dowdy, physical therapist assistant.

He was able to return home on July 17. He was independent in his mobility indoor and outdoor, reported no pain in his stump and was able to manage his prosthesis independently.

“My therapy was very good,” said Donald. “Now I’m able to walk again instead of having to use a wheelchair at home.”