Lifestyle Resources
Your Wellbeing Is Our Priority
At Limbs for Life, we believe that your health, confidence, and independence matter – because you are more than your limb loss. This page is your home for practical, everyday resources designed to support your long-term health and quality of life. Whether you’re adjusting to a prosthesis, managing diabetes, or just seeking ways to stay healthy and active, our hope is to help equip and encourage you every step of the way!
From daily checklists to movement ideas and nutrition tips, everything here points back to one truth: “U” are worth it!
Explore each section below for tools to protect your health and help you live your best life after limb loss.
FOOT CARE
Check It Out!
If you’ve experienced limb loss, consistent and intentional foot care is essential – especially for those with diabetes or vascular conditions. Daily foot inspections can be life-saving. Early intervention can oftentimes prevent up to 80% of diabetes-related amputation, and it all starts with being proactive.
Inspect your feet each day for skin changes, dryness, ulcers, or cracks. Prevent future problems by avoiding barefoot walking and wearing safe, comfortable shoes. Protect your skin by keeping it clean, dry, and moisturized.
Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, or foul odors. If you notice discomfort, stop wearing your prosthesis and seek medical care as soon as possible.
Additional tips:
- Gently wash your residual limb daily with mild, fragrance-free soap
- Thoroughly dry and moisturize your skin – especially before bed
- Change liners and prosthetic socks daily
- Allow liners to fully air-dry after washing
Taking care of your feet is part of taking care of YOU. Let this be a part of your daily hygiene routine – because you’re worth it.
DIABETES
Prevention and Protection
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of lower limb amputation – but education and action can help change that narrative. Over the years, half of Limbs for Life clients have lost their limb due to diabetes-related complications. Some, even losing their other leg. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way moving forward – we’re here to help you protect your health and stay ahead of the risks.
Limb loss in diabetic patients is typically caused by several factors, including:
- Nerve damage that reduces sensation and masks injuries
- Poor circulation in the feet caused by diabetes impact on blood vessels
- Increased risk of infection and delayed healing
Daily foot checks, blood sugar management, and overall health awareness can help reduce the risk of further complications. We’ve gathered helpful videos, checklists, and trusted links to equip you with both knowledge and encouragement. Our hope is to help you move forward with confidence, knowing you’re not alone.
ADA Resources:
- https://shopdiabetes.org/collections/frontpage/products/2025-standards-of-care-in-diabetes-pocket-chart
- https://diabetes.org/tools-resources/diabetes-education-programs
- https://diabetes.org/diabetes-and-your-feet
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/what-diabetes-plate
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/10-must-have-pantry-staples
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/articles?topic=Plant-Based%20Eating
Other Resources:
- https://oklahoma.gov/ohca/individuals/stay-healthy!/diabetes-programs-and-benefits.html
- https://www.pcrm.org/national-diabetes-program
- https://www.pcrm.org/vegankickstart/getting-started
- https://www.pcrm.org/national-diabetes-program
- https://www.pcrm.org/health-topics/diabetes
- https://www.pcrm.org/good-nutrition/nutrition-information/fiber
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJmIJd-qS50&authuser=0
CDC Resources:
NUTRITION
Fuel Your Health
What you eat can play a powerful role in your healing process and overall wellbeing – especially as your body heals and adapts. A balanced diet can help stabilize blood sugar, increase energy, support wound healing, and prevent infection. Consistent good nutrition may positively impact your mental and emotional health – both of which are crucial after limb loss.
Even small, daily choices can make a lasting difference. We’ve included meal tips and guides in an effort to help you feel your best from the inside out!
Resources:
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/what-diabetes-plate
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/blog/10-must-have-pantry-staples
- https://diabetesfoodhub.org/articles?topic=Plant-Based%20Eating
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJmIJd-qS50&authuser=0
- https://www.pcrm.org/national-diabetes-program
- https://www.pcrm.org/vegankickstart/getting-started
- https://www.pcrm.org/health-topics/diabetes
- https://www.pcrm.org/good-nutrition/nutrition-information/fiber
MOVEMENT
Let’s Get Physical
Movement is medicine. Staying active, even in simple ways, can significantly improve your physical strength, emotional health, and overall confidence and independence after limb loss.
Regular movement supports circulation, promotes healing, helps maintain a healthy weight, builds muscle for better balance and stability, and helps enhance your confidence with a prosthesis. What is the safest exercise for you? Ask your Prosthetist and Doctor.
Start small. Be consistent. Celebrate your progress.
- Find an activity you enjoy. Walking is key to adjusting to your prosthetic leg.
- Set realistic goals. Start with 5, 7, or 10 minutes and work your way up.
- Buddy up. Exercise with a friend or family member and if you have a phone, keep it with you.
- Monitor your glucose. Always check your blood sugar before, during, and after activity.
- Hydrate!
No step is too small when it comes to your health. Your body was made to move – and so are you!