Influence of amputation type on activity limitation, participation restriction and quality of life among amputees in Kano, Nigeria.

Background: Involvement of amputees in societal activities such as sports, recreation, cultural activities and employment will not only reduce stigmatization but also enhance their wellbeing and longevity. However, it is not known whether the type of amputation may influence activity limitation, participation restriction and quality of life of amputees in Kano. Objective: This study aimed to assess the influence of amputation type on activity limitation, participation restriction and quality of life of amputees in Kano. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design with 100 participants recruited and assessed was used. Outcome measures used included the Groningen activity restriction scale (GARS) to assess activity limitation, the participation scale (P-scale) to assess participation restriction and the short form health status survey (SF-12) to assess quality of life of respondents. Frequency and percentage distribution were used to analyse the descriptive variables, while linear regression was applied to assess the influence of amputation type on activity limitation, participation restriction and quality of life of amputees at alpha = 0.05. Results: The majority of participants belonged to the age category of 26-39 years (34.4%) and 40-60 years (32.2%) with the mean age of 41.53±15.17 years. The study population included 62.2% of males and 37.8% of females. Above knee amputation (AKA) was most commonly performed (54.4%). The results showed that the amputation type had a significant effect on participation restriction (B= -0.185, p < 0.05) without any influence on activity limitation and quality of life (p >0.05). Conclusion: The type of amputation has significant influence on participation restriction yet does not limit the individual's performance in the society and does not affect their self-image and self-esteem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]