This dissertation explores the psychological impact of traumatic leg amputations. The phenomenological approach was used to explore the amputees' experiences with the accidents leading to the amputations, the medical-surgical, and rehabilitation phases of treatment. The effects of the amputations on their work, finances, recreation, social life, intimate relationships, sexual expression, religious views, and life plan, as well as the impact on their self-esteem, mood patterns, and self-concept are explored.
Material was obtained through the methods of observation and interview with the co-researchers. Co-researchers were early or middle age adults who ranged in age, at the time of the interviews, from 18 to 38 years old. The material was analyzed on a case-by-case basis for meaning and significance to each individual, as well as a question-by-question analysis to explore each of the affected areas separately. A subject-centered perspective was utilized to enable maximum engagement with the co-researchers.
The findings indicate that traumatic amputation is a life crisis of the highest magnitude. The physical realities of the amputations themselves, combined with the life-long medical-surgical, prosthetic, and rehabilitative care, hadprofound effects on the victims' physical mobility, on their self-concept and sense of wholeness and identity. The findings suggest that persons amputated as juveniles achieved excellent recoveries. Although they stated experiencing mobility problems and significant peer rejection in childhood, they now use their uniqueness as amputees to positively differentiate themselves from their peers. The adults reported significantly more difficulties. They cited ongoing and significant problems with physical mobility and multiple daily frustrations. These mobility problems had a great impact on their work, finances, family lives and related areas. They also continued to experience profound loss, regret, and diminished sense of wholeness and self-esteem.
The implications for medical, psychological, and rehabilitation care are extensive; amputees do not feel others are knowledgeable about, nor supportive enough, of their amputation experiences. Amputees stated that after the active accident/surgery stage, others often are unaware of the perverseness of their losses and of the continuing physical and emotional daily struggle.