PIP for Amputees - Claiming PIP with a Prosthetic Limb

Many amputees are told they won't qualify for PIP because they have a prosthetic limb. This is wrong. A prosthetic does not restore full function. Phantom pain, socket issues, skin breakdown, prosthetic limitations, and the energy cost of using a prosthetic all affect daily life significantly.

Lower Limb Amputation

Moving Around (Activity 12) - This is usually the highest-scoring activity. Even with a well-fitted prosthetic, walking distance is reduced, terrain affects ability, and the energy cost of walking with a prosthetic is 40-65% higher than walking with a natural limb. If you can't walk more than 50 metres reliably with your prosthetic, you score standard mobility. Under 20 metres scores enhanced.

Key point: PIP assesses you WITH your prosthetic, not without it. But "with prosthetic" doesn't mean "as good as before." Describe what you still can't do even with the prosthetic fitted.

Washing and Bathing (Activity 4) - Removing the prosthetic to shower creates balance problems. Getting in and out of the bath on one leg. Shower seats, grab rails, and help from another person are common needs.

Dressing (Activity 6) - Putting on the prosthetic itself takes time and effort. Putting on socks and shoes on the prosthetic side. Adjusting liners and sockets. Some people need help getting the prosthetic on correctly.

Managing Therapy (Activity 3) - Prosthetic maintenance, socket adjustments, limb clinic appointments, phantom pain management, skin care for the residual limb, physiotherapy. This is ongoing, lifelong therapy.

Upper Limb Amputation

Preparing Food (Activity 1) - Cutting, peeling, opening tins, lifting pots, and managing hot items with one hand or a prosthetic hand. Many prosthetic hands have limited grip strength and dexterity. If tasks take you significantly longer or you need help, this scores.

Washing and Bathing (Activity 4) - Washing with one hand. Managing taps, soap, and shampoo. Drying yourself.

Dressing (Activity 6) - Buttons, zips, tying shoelaces, fastening bras. Many one-handed tasks require adaptations or help.

Phantom Pain and PIP

Phantom pain is real, recognised, and PIP-relevant. It can be constant or episodic. It affects concentration, sleep, mood, and the ability to use a prosthetic. Describe it specifically: "I experience phantom pain in my absent left leg on approximately 5 out of 7 days. The pain is severe enough to prevent me from wearing my prosthetic for more than 2 hours. Without the prosthetic, I am limited to wheelchair use."

What Evidence Helps?

• Prosthetic limb centre letters
• Physiotherapist reports
• Pain clinic letters for phantom pain
• Occupational therapist reports
• Photos of residual limb issues (skin breakdown, socket problems)
• Partner or carer statement