The rehabilitation programme for persons with lower limb amputations at a primary level rehabilitation centre

Abstract

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the amputation rehabilitation programme offered at an out-patient rehabilitation centre. Amputations have a severe physical, psychological and socio- economic impact.   Effective rehabilitation can assist the individual in dealing with these. 

A quantitative, descriptive design was implemented.  Thirty amputees who received rehabilitation and the therapists working at the centre participated in the study.   An International classification of Function, Disability and Health based questionnaire, folder audit form and interview schedules were used for data collection.  

No programme vision, mission or objectives could be identified.  Rehabilitation focused on impairment. The impact of prosthetic rehabilitation on in and outdoor activities requiring mobility was statistically significant, with p values ranging from 0.00069 to 0.037.`No indoor mobility training` had a negative impact on lifting and carrying objects (p 0.011), standing up (p = 0.042), getting around inside the house (p = 0.00023), picking up objects from the floor (p = 0.00068), getting up from the floor (p = 0.0072), getting out of the house (p = 0.0016) and moving around in the yard (0.0013).  `Failure to address community mobility` had a statistically significant negative impact on all aspects of community mobility scores except transfers and driving.

Recommendations include that a service vision and objectives be developed. In addition services should be evaluated and monitored on an ongoing basis and mentorship provided to therapists.