Evaluating the Experience of Upper Limb Prosthesis Use

This study aims to understand the critical factors associated with outcome acceptance following upper limb loss.

The investigators aim to develop a unified theoretical model that describes the psychosocial experience of upper limb prosthesis use and predicts outcome acceptance following upper limb loss.

The investigators will also examine experiences with prosthesis education, selection, and training as well as how psychological and social issues impact prosthesis use. In addition, the investigators will use the findings to develop a prototype decision tool to assist with matching persons to prostheses. Study findings will help providers, technology developers, and researchers better understand the complex experience of upper limb prosthesis use.

This conceptual framework will enable clinicians and researchers to evaluate and predict patient outcomes following limb loss, and to design interventions that improve outcomes. The proposed study is a mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative) study using an observational design.