Experiences in rehabilitation for individuals with acquired amputation: A narrative review

The experiences of amputees undergoing rehabilitation are as unique as the individual. Exploring these experiences will set a more holistic foundation for clinicians to adjust care plans and goals. The purpose of this narrative review is to identify themes within the rehabilitation experience of upper and lower limb amputees. A search was completed in 4 separate databases, finding 8 appropriate articles based on inclusion criteria. The review followed Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research guidelines. Three themes were synthesized from this review: ability/normalcy, mental health, and success. These themes represent concurrent concepts of experience that amputees share in rehabilitation. Understanding the unique rehabilitation experiences supports the patient-centered approach to care. The patient's perception of success and "normal," addressing and supporting their mental health, and understanding their needs to return to independent ability is pertinent to setting meaningful goals and outcomes.