Surgery·Surgery
Amputation below knee overview
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A below-knee amputation is surgery to remove the foot and part of the lower leg, but keep the knee joint. It is done when the leg below the knee is severely damaged or diseased and cannot be saved. After healing, most people can use an artificial leg called a prosthesis.
Key facts
It is not very common in the general population, but it is one of the most common major amputations. In the UK, thousands of people have a below-knee amputation each year, often due to problems with blood flow or diabetes.
It mostly affects older adults, especially those with peripheral artery disease (narrowed leg arteries) or diabetes. It can also happen to younger people after a severe injury or infection.
A doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, examine your legs, and check the pulses in your feet. They may listen to your leg arteries with a stethoscope and look at skin colour and temperature.
Treatment focuses first on saving your leg if possible. If amputation is needed, the goal is to remove the damaged part and help you regain as much function as possible with a prosthetic limb. Treatment includes wound care, infection control, surgery, rehabilitation, and fitting of an artificial leg.
Doctors may prescribe medications to improve blood flow, control infection, or manage pain. They may also recommend wound dressings, antibiotics for infections, or angioplasty (a procedure to open blocked arteries) to try to save the leg. If these do not work, amputation may be the best option to stop the problem from getting worse.
After healing, most people use a prosthetic leg. It takes time and practice to learn to walk again. You may need a walking aid at first. Many people return to work, drive, and enjoy hobbies. Regular check-ups with your prosthetic team are important to adjust the fit and function of your artificial limb.
A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals helps wound healing and overall health. Exercise such as gentle stretching, leg lifts, and balance exercises can strengthen your muscles. Your physiotherapist will give you a tailored programme. Activities like swimming are kind to your joints and great for fitness.
Many below-knee amputations can be prevented by managing underlying health problems. If you have diabetes or peripheral artery disease, regular foot checks, good blood sugar control, quitting smoking, and treating infections early can greatly reduce your risk. If you have leg pain or a wound that does not heal, see a doctor right away.
If you have risk factors like diabetes or a family history of artery disease, your doctor may recommend regular checks of your leg pulses and ankle-brachial index. This can detect poor blood flow early, before it causes serious damage.
Most people do very well after a below-knee amputation. With good medical care, rehabilitation, and a properly fitted prosthesis, you can walk again and return to many of the activities you enjoy. Your chances of a good recovery are highest when you follow your healthcare team's advice and stay positive. Remember, you can still live a full, active life.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Your doctor will explain the results and discuss all options. If amputation is recommended, they will explain why and what to expect before, during, and after surgery. You will meet with a surgeon, physiotherapist, and possibly a psychologist to help you prepare.
Surgery is recommended when the leg cannot be saved because of severe lack of blood flow, extensive tissue death (gangrene), uncontrollable infection, or cancer that cannot be removed in another way. The surgery is done under general anaesthetic (you are asleep) and usually takes 1–2 hours.
Losing a limb can bring feelings of grief, anger, or sadness. It is normal to need time to adjust. Phantom limb pain (feeling pain in the missing limb) is common but can be managed. Talking to a counsellor or joining a support group can help you cope. If you feel very down or anxious, please tell your doctor – there is help available.