Satisfaction with prostheses and services in cyclists with a lower limb amputation

Objective: To investigate the prosthetic and service satisfaction in cycling and non-cycling adults with a lower limb amputation in Thailand and to analyze factors associated with satisfaction. Materials and Methods: Orthotics and Prosthetics Users' Survey questionnaire was given to 424 adults with uni or bilateral lower limb amputation in five public hospitals and mobile units. Associated variables in univariate analysis were entered into a multiple linear regression. Results: Forty-five percent of participants were from the Veterans General Hospital, Bangkok. Cyclists were slightly more satisfied with the prostheses than non-cyclists, but no differences were reported for service satisfaction. In general, all participants were satisfied with the service received. Factors associated with higher prosthetic satisfaction were not using gait aids, being employed or retired, being amputated below the knee, no or basic education, and hospital delivering the prosthesis. The factor associated with higher service satisfaction was not using gait aids. Conclusion: The researchers' results suggested that mobility independence, use of the prosthesis, and socioeconomic status may influence prosthetic and service satisfaction. Communication between people with a lower limb amputation and prosthetists, as well as follow-up after delivery may improve the prosthetic and service satisfaction. Satisfactory prostheses may increase activity participation, as seen in cyclists.