If you have had to have a limb amputated, you are probably looking forward to the opportunity to get the necessary prosthetics. But you cannot expect to get the procedure done right away. Even after you have the new limb, it will take some time for you to learn to use it properly. For this reason, you should plan to wait anywhere from a few months to more than a year to retain some use of the limb you lost.
You should first know that you cannot get prosthetics for at least several weeks after amputation. In some cases, it could take months. It all depends on how long it takes your body for the swelling and any discomfort to disappear. Your doctor can give you an estimate, along with some tips to reduce the amount of time it takes for the area to heal. But there is no way to know for sure when you will regain the ability to use the limb you lost. In most cases, the appointment to get prosthetics will only be scheduled once the swelling and pain have been reduced.
Even if the swelling has gone down rather fast, you will likely have to work out payment options with your doctor. This means you will need to talk to your insurance provider to find out how much of the procedure will be paid for. As you probably already know, working with insurance companies can take some time, since you will spend days waiting for a call back or a form in the mail. This is why you should contact your provider as soon as you know you will need prosthetics. This way, you can work out payment details as you heal.
You will also need to choose the equipment you need in order to move somewhat naturally after your amputation. Your doctor should help you make this decision, showing you what is available and what he or she recommends for you in particular. Most doctors will take your lifestyle and budget into account when making recommendations, so be sure to be honest about how active you are and how much you can afford. Of course, you might not know how much you can afford until you talk to your insurance company, which is why even the selection of prosthetics might be delayed until you work out payment.
Clearly, it can take months to get the replacement limb after amputation. Then you will need to spend some time getting used to it. For this reason, you should plan to wait at least six months before you can begin to try out activities you used to enjoy, whether they include walking, running, or dancing.