A Patient Guide to Returning to Work after an Amputation

Recovery takes time and different for everyone.

You may be:

• Recovering from surgery Learning to use a prosthesis or mobility aid
• Managing pain, swelling, or fatigue
• Adjusting emotionally

It is normal to feel unsure or anxious about returning.

There is no right or wrong time to go back to work or education.

Your return should be based on your readiness, not pressure.

Physical demands:

• Standing, walking, lifting
• Using a prosthesis for long periods
• Repetitive tasks

Cognitive demands:

• Concentration and memory
• Multitasking
• Learning new skills

Emotional demands:

• Stress, deadlines
• Interacting with others
• Change in body image

Environment:

• Is it accessible? (stairs, lifts, toilets, wheelchair)
• Can your workstation be adapted?
• Is there space to rest if needed?

Travel:

• How long is your journey?
• Will it increase fatigue?
• Are there alternative options?
• Is your public transport route manageable?
• Thinking about return to driving- you can do so through your local driving mobility centre.

Phased Return:

• Start with shorter hours or fewer days
• Gradually build up
• Take regular breaks
• Avoid rushing back to reduce fatigue and setbacks

Workplace Adjustments:

You may be entitled to:

• Flexible hours or home working
• Adjusted duties
• Adapted equipment
• Extra breaks
• Access to Work - Government grant scheme to support with your return to work

Occupational Health:

• Advice on returning safely
• Recommendations to your employer
• Support with workplace adjustments

Managing at Work:

• Build wearing time of prosthesis gradually
• Take breaks and check skin from prosthesis
• Pace yourself throughout the day
• Rest regularly and change positions

Wellbeing & Communication:

• Feeling anxious or unsure is normal
• Seek support if needed
• Be open with your employer
• Agree a clear plan and reviews

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Otheroptions to consider:

• Volunteering to build confidence
• Work experience opportunities
• Education or retraining
• Support with CV writing and job applications, through National Careers Service

Financial support:

You may be entitled to:

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Universal Credit
• Other financial support
• Seek advice early to avoid financial stress.

Support services:

• Occupational Therapy
• Prosthetic and rehabilitation teams
• Vocational rehabilitation services
• Disability employment services

Government:

• Access to Work: https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work 
• Benefits: https://www.gov.uk/browse/benefits
• National Careers Service: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/
• Jobcentre Plus: https://www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus

Charities and Empolyment Support:

• Scope: https://www.scope.org.uk/
• Shaw Trust: https://shawtrust.org.uk/
• Citizens Advice: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
• Changing Faces: https://www.changingfaces.org.uk/
• Macmillan (work support): https://www.macmillan.org.uk/

Amputee specific support:

• Limbless Association: https://limbless-association.org/ 
• Limpower: https://www.limbpower.com/
• Reach (upper limb): https://www.reach.org.uk/ 
• Steel Bones: steelbone.co.uk/