How do users define success with a lower limb prosthesis? A focus group study

Abstract

Purpose In this study, we sought to examine how lower limb prosthesis users define success, what constructs they associate with success, and what barriers and facilitators contribute to achieving success. Materials and methods Purposively sampled lower limb prosthesis users were recruited to participate in a focus group study. Verbatim transcripts from focus groups were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Identified constructs were mapped to existing outcome measures, and a conceptual framework for success with a lower limb prosthesis was proposed. Results Thirty-one lower limb prosthesis users participated in one of five focus groups. Five themes were developed: keep moving forward, despite ups and downs; being able to live MY normal life and do the things I want to do with ease; learning what works for me and how to manage my prosthesis; only I can define my success; and what about my mental health? Several constructs that do not align with existing measures were identified, including prosthetic attention, grief/loss after amputation, and trust in prosthesis. Facilitators for success described by participants included peer connection, finding the right prosthetist, and mental health support. Conclusions According to lower limb prosthesis users, success must be patient-driven, individually defined, and continually reassessed.