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Public scrutiny of candidate's tax statements?

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Arm vs. Leg?

Comment comment by jmarkdavison on 26 June 2006

This is a macabre poll, but let me opine that the limb I'd miss the least would have to be one of my arms- I am surprised by the two leg votes. Whoever thinks their left/non-dominant arm is less valuable than either leg, please say why.

I voted for hearing, personally, although I don't use my left arm for much. Hopefully none of us will have occasion to make this choice in real life!

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PT says: leg. by Liz_Miracle :: NR5

I voted for leg and I'll tell you why. The anatomical definition for "leg" is below the knee. That being said, success rates for young healthy people with the use of prosthetics is high. Great advances in prosthetics have been seen in above knee (trans-femoral) amputations as well, i.e. the "c leg" With proper training from a physical therapist (I had to throw that in) one can function at a level close to their previous baseline, running, skiing etc.

Perhaps you do not find your non-dominant arm useful, but there are many things throughout the day that you do with both extremities that you don't think about, i.e. typing, steading a sheet of paper while writing, reaching for objects above head, dressing (buttoning etc.). In addition, prosthesis for upper extremities are not nearly as advanced as for lower extremities and are much more difficult to master. Not only that, but they can never help you regain a lost function such as an artificial leg can. Occupational therapists can help you adjust your life to your deficit, but you cannot adjust your prosthesis to your life.

Plus, I'm a physical therapist so I would have an advantage in self management, i.e. stump (residual limb) care, and prosthetic training.

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RE: Arm vs. Leg? by Anonymous :: NR0

Initially I inclined to agree with your comment, but then I thought... "Gamers!".