Amputee Resource Foundation of America, Inc.

First and oldest on-line information resource for amputee rehabilitation.

The door to knowledge

It is our mission to disseminate timely and useful information, and to conduct research to enhance productivity and quality of life for amputees in America.

The Amputee Resource Foundation of America recognizes the crucial role of current, accurate information pertaining to all aspects of amputation management and amputee rehabilitation in assisting in the process of assimilating amputees back into society and returning many to the workplace. Easily accessible, accurate information about amputation and the consequences thereof have been severely lacking for many decades. However, recent advances in technology can now provide access to timely information and resources heretofore unavailable to many.

When amputation is performed to proven guidelines, and appropriate follow-up care is provided during the rehabilitation process (information, psychological support, physical therapy, prosthetics or other mobility aids) secondary complications and additional expenses are greatly reduced. Regretfully, this is not often the case, as basic information and education are not regularly provided, and this leads to unnecessary costs.

Throughout the history of humankind on earth, amputation has been performed in response to circumstances such as injury, or disease. Amputation is a life saving procedure that can return an individual to an active, productive role in society. Yet, despite increased awareness and understanding of amputation, from initial surgery through rehabilitation, many today are without a clear grasp of the various factors which impact the life of an amputee. The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association reports that the baby boom generation will reach the ages of 46 to 64 by the year 2010, thereby increasing the population of individuals at risk to diseases causing amputation. By the year 2020 the number of people who have an amputation and are in need of a prosthesis will increase by 47%.

We do not fund the purchase of prostheses nor are we a resource for funding information or social services.

ARFA is a 501c3 non-profit Internet based information resource funded through public donations.
ARFA is not sponsored by the prosthetics industry.

The information provided on this site is designed to support, and not replace
the relationship that exists between a person with limb loss
and his/her existing prosthetist or physician.

The Foundation is the reality of Al Pike, CP a board certified prosthetist who had the vision to see the potential of the Internet for amputees - Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinics of North America / May 1991.

Past president of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists, and first individual to receive the Professional Achievement Award of the Amputee Coalition of America.

Amputees In Hollywood

A subsidiary of the Amputee Resource Foundation of America, Inc.

Update 01/08/10