Article

The aims of this study were to examine the ability of patients to
return to driving cars and riding motorcycles after lower limb amputation, and to
explore the factors that significantly affect such ability. DESIGN: A sample of
90 participants, mean age 55.2 years (standard deviation 12.5), were recruited
from a tertiary hospital. Inclusion criteria were: age over 18 years; unilateral
or bilateral major lower limb amputation; and having been driving cars and/or
riding motorcycles 6 months prior to amputation. Data collected via a structured
questionnaire revealed that the most common cause of amputation was diabetic foot
complications (75.6%). RESULTS: Nearly half (45.6%) of the participants returned
to driving/riding within 1-72 months post-amputation. Males (p<0.05) and those
wearing prostheses (p<0.001) significantly returned to driving/riding. The main
reasons for not driving/riding were family members' concerns, other medical
illnesses, and lack of confidence of the patient. CONCLUSION: The rate of return
to driving/riding among patients with lower limb amputation is low. Clinicians
should address family members' concerns and patient's level of confidence in
their rehabilitation services.

Langue : ANGLAIS