Beyond the body image: a qualitative study on how adults experience lower limb amputation

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Lower limb amputation presents significant challenges to adult patients.
• Understanding the psychosocial impact, particularly on self-identity, is crucial for effective rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore adults' lived experiences following lower limb amputation.
• To specifically investigate the transformation of self-identity in relation to the physical impairment.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative, cross-sectional study involving 42 adult lower limb amputees.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted, focusing on emotional impact, adjustment, and resource utilization.
• Data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed by two independent researchers.

Main Results:

• Eight emergent themes detailed patients' reactions, life changes, well-being, prosthesis relationship, self-perceptions, rehabilitation goals, and social support.
• Findings supported a theoretical model illustrating self-identity changes post-amputation.
• Key themes included emotional responses, life adjustments, and interactions with rehabilitation services and social networks.

Conclusions:

• Self-identity changes after lower limb amputation are multifaceted, impacting more than just body image and function.
• The impairment influences patients' awareness of their condition, their sense of self over time (biographical self), and their future aspirations.
• These findings highlight the need for holistic approaches in rehabilitation that address the deeper aspects of self-identity.