Factors Affecting Physical Activity in Iraqi Patients with Lower Limb Amputation

Limb loss can negatively affect the psychological and physical well-being, mobility, and social life of people with lower limb amputation. Participating in physical activities is of great importance for these people. This study aimed to explore factors affecting the physical activity of Iraqi lower-limb amputees.

In this cross-sectional study, the participants were asked to fill out the Oswestry disability index (ODI) questionnaire, the 12-item short-form health survey (SF-12), the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scales (TAPES), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The performance-based Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was also assessed. We used a hierarchical regression model to estimate the effect of some parameters on physical activity considering age, sex, and level of amputation.

A total of 376 lower limb amputees, aged 20 to 67 years old, completed the tests. The TUG time (beta = 0.406; P < 0.001), mental component score of the SF-12 (beta = 0.214; P < 0.001), ODI (beta = -0.201; P < 0.001), and physical activity component of SF-12 (beta = 0.131; P = 0.002) had significant associations with physical activity.

The TUG time was the most critical factor in predicting physical activity. The mental score component of the SF-12 ranked second, showing the importance of family and social support for amputees in their physical activity and emphasizing the importance of including mental and psychosocial plans in the rehabilitation program of lower limb amputees. Low back pain should be taken seriously in lower limb amputees because of its prevalence and the effect of its related disability on the physical activity of amputees. Residual limb pain was also very prevalent. Although it did not contribute to our model, its negative effect on physical activity should not be underestimated.