Why Confidence Matters More Than the Prosthetic

What does it really take to learn to walk again after an amputation?

In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland welcomes physical therapist John Lottes, DPT, Clinical Supervisor at First Step Physical Therapy and an adjunct professor who specializes in prosthetic rehabilitation.

John shares how an unexpected career path led him to working with individuals with limb loss and explains why the biggest hurdle in recovery often isn’t physical—it’s confidence. Together, Mike and John discuss the importance of celebrating small victories, building trust with your rehabilitation team, and developing the mindset needed to regain independence.

They also explore:

• Why confidence is the foundation of successful rehabilitation
• The small wins that lead to life-changing progress
• Common frustrations people experience after amputation
• How physical therapists, prosthetists, physicians, and caregivers work together
• The patient story that shaped John’s career
• Why human connection will always matter, even as AI transforms healthcare

Whether you’re living with limb loss, supporting a loved one, or working in rehabilitation, this episode offers practical advice, encouragement, and a reminder that recovery is about far more than learning to use a prosthesis.

About Our Guest

John Lottes is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Clinical Supervisor at First Step Physical Therapy (https://www.1ststeppt.com/), and an adjunct professor at Touro University (http://touro.edu) who teaches future physical therapists. He specializes in lower-limb prosthetic rehabilitation and has dedicated his career to helping people regain mobility, confidence, and independence after amputation.