The holidays can bring joy but also unique challenges for amputees, including managing social, emotional, and physical stressors. This is a good time of year to remember that proactive strategies can help make the season enjoyable, healthy and stress-free. Here are some steps you can take to make sure you get the most out of your holiday season:
Plan and Prioritize: The holidays often come with bustling schedules. Prioritize activities that bring you the most joy and limit commitments to avoid overexertion. Be realistic about what you can accomplish, especially if adapting to a new prosthetic or recovering from surgery.
Stay Active: Many of our patients are already devoted to physical activity, so you may already know how much it helps alleviate stress, keeps your body strong, maintains movement and improves both mood and mobility. If you’re not, the added stress of the holidays make this a perfect to get out there and walk, stretch, or take a fitness class adapted for amputees.
Mind Prosthetic Care: Winter weather can be tough on prosthetics and residual limbs. Cold temperatures may cause prosthetic materials to stiffen, impacting comfort and mobility. Residual limb skin is also more prone to dryness and irritation in the colder months. Combat this by moisturizing daily with a prosthetic-safe lotion and protecting the residual limb with appropriate liners. Wear thermal prosthetic socks to maintain warmth without compromising the fit.
Before venturing out, inspect your prosthetic for proper alignment and functionality, especially after exposure to cold. Regular checkups with your prosthetic team ensure optimal fit and avoid discomfort during longer holiday outings. Adjustments may be necessary if the cold affects your limb’s volume or skin condition.
Embrace Support Systems: Support from friends, loved ones and professionals is invaluable. Lean on family and friends for help with holiday preparations, and don’t hesitate to communicate your needs. Feeling supported can significantly reduce stress. Of course, your prosthetic care and physical therapy teams can also offer personalized advice to navigate seasonal challenges. And don’t forget we have an outstanding amputee peer group that can foster understanding and share strategies for thriving during the holidays. They provide not only advice but also emotional support from those who truly understand your journey.
Practice Self-Care: Stress reduction is about balance. Limit commitments to avoid exhaustion and prioritize activities that bring you joy and promote relaxation. Incorporate stress-relief practices like meditation, deep breathing, or a relaxing hobby. Physical activity, such as yoga or gentle stretches, keeps you energized and boosts mood.
Finally, allow yourself to say no. Setting boundaries and focusing on what truly matters can make the holidays more meaningful while safeguarding your well-being.
By taking proactive steps, staying connected to your support network, and practicing self-care, you can navigate holiday stress while maintaining your health and well-being. The season can be a time of joy and connection—and with a little preparation and the right tools, you can embrace it fully!
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