Adjustment to an Artificial Limb: A Qualitative Perspective

The purpose of this study was to identify factors considered to be important in the adjustment to amputation and the wearing of a prosthetic limb from the perspective of the person who has had a lower limb amputation. Hence, focus group methodology was employed as a means of acquiring perspectives within a population of young adults who had a lower limb amputation. Preliminary thematic analysis revealed that factors such as self-image, social, physical and practical concerns, the meaning attributed to and the acceptance of the amputation and support among others were important in the adjustment process. These findings have substantial implications for directing future research.