A study of the physical rehabilitation and psychological state of patients who sustained limb loss as a result of terrorist activity in Northern Ireland 1969 – 2003

Abstract

Objective. To benchmark the psychological state and physical rehabilitation of patients who have sustained limb loss as a result of terrorist activity in Northern Ireland and to determine their satisfaction with the period of primary prosthetic rehabilitation and the artificial limb.Method. All patients who sustained limb loss as a result of the Troubles and were referred to our rehabilitation centre were sent a questionnaire. The main outcome measures were the SIGAM mobility grades, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12) and three screening questions for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).Results. Out of a 66% response rate, 52 (69%) patients felt that the period of primary prosthetic rehabilitation was adequate; 32 (54%) lower limb amputees graded themselves SIGAM C or D; 45 (60%) patients stated that they were still having significant stump pain. Significant stump pain was associated with poorer mobility. Nine (56%) upper limb amputees used their prosthetic limb in a functional way; 33 (44%) patients showed “psychiatric caseness” on the GHQ 12 and 50 (67%) had symptoms of PTSD.Conclusions. Most patients felt that the period of physical rehabilitation had been adequate; those who did not were more likely to be having ongoing psychological problems. A high percentage of patients continue to have psychological problems and stump pain.