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Lower extremity prosthesis usage among U.S. veterans: 10-year cohort study.
Roland Paquette1, Giselle Carnaby2, Timothy Reistetter3
1Department of Physician Assistant Studies, Baylor University, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Waco, TX, USA.
Disability and Rehabilitation
|July 21, 2025
Summary
U.S. veterans show higher lower extremity prosthesis use despite risk factors. Holistic care addressing nutrition and health is key for post-amputation function and wellness.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Veteran Health
Background:
- Lower extremity amputation (LEA) disproportionately affects U.S. veterans.
- Existing research on LEA prosthesis use in veterans is limited.
- Understanding factors influencing prosthesis usage is crucial for optimizing veteran care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate lower extremity prosthesis usage in U.S. veterans.
- To identify modifiable factors (pain, weight, comorbidities, skin issues) associated with prosthesis use.
- To describe prosthesis provision patterns among veterans.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 300 U.S. veterans (2011-2021).
- Data collected from a single amputation clinic.
- Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses used to assess associations with prosthesis usage.
Main Results:
- Significant associations found between prosthesis usage and sex, etiology, smoking, comorbidities, and amputation characteristics.
- Pain and body weight showed weak but significant associations; lower weight (<170 lbs) exacerbated pain.
- Veterans demonstrated higher daily prosthesis usage than the general population.
Conclusions:
- U.S. veterans exhibit increased prosthesis usage despite higher risk for barriers.
- Holistic peri-amputation care addressing nutrition and health is recommended.
- Tailored rehabilitation plans are essential for optimizing veteran function post-amputation.
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