Short-term effect of physiotherapy rehabilitation on functional performance of lower limb amputees

Abstract

The objective of the trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a short and intensive physiotherapy programme versus usual care, mainly consisting of walking. Fifty-eight male unilateral lower limb amputees were randomised over intensive care (N = 29) and usual care (N = 29); this study was carried out in a clinical environment, within the premises of the International Committee of the Red Cross, in Southern Myanmar. The amputees in the experimental group received a three-day programme built around 7 specific exercises, lasting approximately one hour altogether. Effects were assessed on: 2-minute walk test, physiological cost index (PCI), amount of weight bearing on both legs, 5 questions of the Functional Measure for Amputees questionnaire and the timed up and go test. Trans-tibial amputees were tested the first day they were fitted and then 2 days later; trans-femoral amputees were tested when walking out of the parallel bars and 4 days later. The experimental group showed significant improvement in the 2-minute walk test (p = 0.02), in the PCI (p = 0.02) and in the maximal weight bearing test on the amputated leg (p = 0.04). Despite limited means, research remains feasible in a developing country; this study has demonstrated that physiotherapy is effective in improving functional performance of lower limb amputees and therefore has its place in every rehabilitation centre.