Article

PURPOSE: To examine the environmental and personal factors in low-income
countries (LICs) that influence prosthetic rehabilitation of adults with
lower-limb (LL) amputations and their ability to participate in daily activities.
METHODS: In this qualitative descriptive study, 11 prosthetists participated in
semi-structured interviews by telephone or Skype. Qualitative thematic analysis
was guided by the International Classification of Function.
RESULTS: Facilitating
continuity of care, consideration of physical environments and usage, prosthetic
quality including durability and socket fit, and minimizing the visibility of
disability, were found to be important factors affecting the provision of
prosthetic services in LICs. CONCLUSIONS: Environmental and personal factors must
be considered when providing prosthetic rehabilitation for adults with LL
amputations in LICs in order to optimize participation in activities. Results
from this study provide new insights about some of the factors that influence the
ability of individuals with LL amputations to rehabilitate to a level where they
are able to participate in meaningful activities within their communities.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: There are unique environmental and personal
components that can influence activity and participation of lower-limb (LL)
prosthetic users in low-income countries (LICs). These components are often
overlooked in the design of prosthetic devices and provision of prosthetic
services. Continuity of care, condition of the post-surgical residuum, outdoor
environments of common occupations, aesthetics and durability of prostheses, and
user comfort should all be considered when providing prosthetic rehabilitation to
adults with LL amputations in LICs to promote activity and participation. Results
of our study can inform the practice of prosthetists in LICs by highlighting
their contributions in enabling participation for LL prosthetic users. Our
results can also inform the design of durable and comfortable prostheses and the
provision of more appropriate prosthetic rehabilitation to LL prosthetic users in
LICs to facilitate and optimize participation.

Langue : ANGLAIS