A national study of Veterans with major upper limb amputation: Survey methods, participants, and summary findings A national survey of Veterans with upper limb amputation

Abstract

Appropriate provision of upper limb prostheses and rehabilitation services can improve satisfaction with the prosthetic limb, reduce device abandonment and improve overall quality of life. Regular use of a prosthesis may also prevent cumulative trauma disorders (CTD) in the sound side limb, as well as back and neck pain related to poor compensatory strategies, common problems of upper limb amputees. Limited research shows that prosthesis use is associated with improved performance in hygiene, grooming and dressing. In contrast, non-use of a prosthesis is associated with development of one-hand