Adjustments to amputation and artificial limb, and quality of life in lower limb amputees

PhD ceremony: Ms. R. Sinha, 14.30 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Dissertation: Adjustments to amputation and artificial limb, and quality of life in lower limb amputees

Promotor(s): prof. W.J.A. van den Heuvel, prof. P. Arokiasamy

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Limb amputation has a major impact, not only in a distorted body image, but it also affects the individual’s social and psychological functioning. Prosthesis is the only means by which these people can be independent, participate in society, and resume their work. Various factors influence the use of prosthesis by amputees and also in turn affect their quality of life (QoL). In this research we found that studies pertaining to QoL in amputees are limited in methodological study design and in presentation of descriptive characteristics of the study population. Being younger and employed, daily use of prosthesis and non-use of an assistive device have a positive influence on the adjustments to amputation and prosthesis. Furthermore, the presence of comorbidity, and residual stump and phantom limb pain, negatively affect QoL. Appropriate vocational rehabilitation can help in improving the employment opportunities among young amputees. Lastly, probable causes of rejection and non-use of prosthesis, as well as the choice of assistive devices over prosthesis should be studied.