Occupational participation in adults with upper limb amputation : an exploratory study

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of adults with an upper limb amputation (ULAmputation) in various daily occupations (DOs) and obtain an occupational therapist's (OTs) perspective on the patients' experiences throughout therapy. This was achieved by critically analysing the limitation in activities of daily living (ADLs), how adaptable they are, and by identifying social occupations that one would avoid. The goal of this study was to connect the gap in the local literature by using an occupational therapy viewpoint. A qualitative research approach was utilised to obtain an in-depth experience of adults with an ULAmputation participating in DOs. During the participant selection process, purposeful sampling was used and participants were chosen based on the exclusion and inclusion criteria. Data was collected through the use of demographics to acquire basic background history on the participants, who also participated in a semi-structured interview. The conceptual foundation for this study was Occupational Therapy Practice foundation: Domain and Process (OTPF). The results were formulated through thematic analysis which brought out five main themes. This research study demonstrated that the use of compensating approaches, alternative techniques, and adapted equipment (AE) were necessary to enable individuals to be self-sufficient and independent in their DOs. The main difficulties participants encountered when acting independently were when using a fork and knife and tying a tie. The role of the prosthesis mainly served as a means to meet social demands of appearing ‘normal’, rather than for functionality. Lastly, it was highly evident that support is fundamental during one’s recovery and rehabilitation process. This study established the techniques ULAmputees utilised to participate in DOs, offering insight into the experiences of those who have lost an upper limb (UL) in the Maltese community.