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Functioning among persons with lower limb amputation with or without prostheses in Rwanda
Robert Ngarambe1,2, Jean Baptiste Sagahutu1, Assuman Nuhu1
1Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
African Journal of Disability
|November 6, 2023
Summary
Persons with lower limb amputations (PLLA) without prostheses experience significantly more difficulties in mobility and daily life. Prosthetic use improves functioning, but psychosocial support is also crucial for reducing disability in PLLA.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Disability Studies
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
Background:
- Lower limb amputation significantly impacts an individual's functional capacity and participation in daily life.
- Persons with lower limb amputations (PLLA) face challenges in self-care, independence, and mental well-being, affecting overall functioning.
- Understanding the specific challenges faced by PLLA is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the functional status and disability levels among PLLA in Rwanda.
- To compare the functioning of PLLA who use prostheses versus those who do not.
- To identify key domains affected by lower limb amputation and prosthetic use.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 247 PLLA aged 18+ in Rwanda.
- Participants were selected through purposive sampling and completed questionnaires.
- Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests and binary logistic regression (SPSS v21.0).
Main Results:
- 40.1% of PLLA used prostheses, while 59.9% did not.
- PLLA without prostheses reported greater difficulties in mobility, participation, and life activities.
- Mild to moderate functioning was reported in cognitive, mobility, and participation domains, with significant odds ratios for PLLA without prostheses.
Conclusions:
- PLLA without prostheses exhibit lower functioning and higher disability across all domains compared to those with prostheses.
- Mobility, self-care activities, and participation are the most affected areas for PLLA.
- While prostheses enhance functioning, addressing psychosocial aspects is vital for comprehensive disability reduction in PLLA.
