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Satisfaction with Prosthesis and Walking Ability among Trans-Tibial Prosthesis Users from Two Selected Rehabilitation
Pasteur Butoya1, Jean de Dieu Rukundo1, Jackline Mupenzi Gatsinzi1
1Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda.
Rwanda Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences
|June 27, 2025
Summary
Many transtibial prosthesis users reported dissatisfaction, with over a third unsatisfied. Moderate walking ability was common, highlighting the need for improved rehabilitation and prosthetic technology for amputees.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Amputee Care
Background:
- Prosthetic satisfaction is crucial for functional mobility and daily activities in transtibial amputees.
- Factors influencing satisfaction and walking ability require further investigation in diverse populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate satisfaction with prostheses among transtibial prosthesis users.
- To assess the walking ability of transtibial prosthesis users in Rwanda.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative cross-sectional study involving 45 transtibial prosthesis users from two Rwandan rehabilitation hospitals.
- Utilized the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience-Revised (TAPES-R) for satisfaction assessment.
- Employed the Timed Up and Go (TUG) and 2-minute walk test (2MWT) to evaluate walking ability.
Main Results:
- 62.2% of participants reported satisfaction with their prosthesis.
- Satisfaction was significantly associated with prosthesis shape, appearance, weight, usefulness, reliability, fit, and comfort, as well as health and physical status.
- 60% of participants demonstrated moderate walking ability.
Conclusions:
- A notable percentage of transtibial prosthesis users experience dissatisfaction.
- Moderate walking ability is prevalent, indicating potential for improvement.
- Enhanced rehabilitation, including gait training, physiotherapy, early fitting, and advanced prosthetic technology, is recommended.
