The provision of sports and activity prostheses: the impact on a child/young person's activity levels

BACKGROUND

Participation in physical activity has significant health benefits for people with limb difference; however, research has shown a number of barriers are preventing the prosthetic limb user from participating. In 2016, in order to maximise physical and psychosocial health, the Department of Health (DoH) England announced funding for paediatric activity prostheses. Activity prostheses There is limited research on the full impact of this provision.

AIM

To identify whether the provision of activity prostheses has an impact on the activity level of children and young people aged 25 and under.

METHOD

A 38-question internet-based survey was distributed to participants aged 25 and under, by organisations involved in paediatric prosthetics, to obtain data about the impact on activity level, sporting engagement, health and daily life when using an activity prosthesis compared to using a standard prosthesis. Data was analysed using a mixed methods approach. Ethical approval was obtained.

RESULTS

8 subjects (5 upper limb and 3 lower limb) completed the questionnaire. 75% of respondents reported increased ability in “specific sports” and “being able to join in with friends”. Improvement was seen in health, wellbeing and daily life with 100% of lower limb respondents stating improvement in every aspect. 50% of participants showed the ambition of being an elite athlete.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

A larger sample group is required to make statistical conclusions, however responses showed large increases in sporting engagement and participation at a higher level when using activity prostheses. There was a vast improvement in the health and wellbeing of respondents, with greater changes amongst lower limb participants. Overall, the study indicates activity prostheses have contributed to increasing activity level and improving the health and quality of life of the users.