Living as a person using a lower-limb prosthesis in Nepal

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation science
• Disability studies
• Prosthetics and orthotics

Background:

• The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) outlines rights related to mobility, education, health, rehabilitation, and employment.
• Understanding the lived experiences of individuals using lower-limb prostheses in Nepal is essential for effective policy and service provision.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of persons using lower-limb prostheses in Nepal.
• To examine these experiences in relation to mobility, education, health, rehabilitation, and work and employment as outlined in the CRPD.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 individuals using lower-limb prostheses.
• Content analysis was applied to the interview data to identify emerging themes.

Main Results:

• Key themes included the essential role of prostheses for mobility, challenges with terrain and pain, difficulties in employment, appreciation for rehabilitation but cost concerns, satisfaction with healthcare but fear of debt, and negative self-image due to limited abilities and societal attitudes.
• Participants expressed a desire for increased independence, better prosthetic technology for challenging terrains, and improved access to education and vocational training.

Conclusions:

• Rehabilitation and prosthetic services in Nepal require expansion to meet the needs of individuals with lower-limb amputations.
• Enhancing access to education, vocational training, and employment opportunities is vital for improving the socio-economic status of this population.
• Further implementation of CRPD policies is necessary to reduce barriers to healthcare, rehabilitation, and prosthetic services, promoting greater independence and inclusion.