Body image and psychosocial adjustment following the amputation of a limb

Armstrong-James, Laura

Abstract

A limb amputation can lead to a broad range of physical and psychological challenges, as individuals must learn to adjust to changes in their physical capabilities in addition to an altered appearance. Individuals may commonly experience psychological issues relating to anxiety, depression and body image, which may not emerge until some months after the amputation. Health professionals may facilitate psychological adjustment by providing information and support to help manage the patient’s needs both before and after the amputation. While intervention strategies such as prosthetics, exercise and counselling may be of benefit, further research is needed to better understand the individual psychological needs of patients undergoing limb amputation.

Citation

Armstrong-James, L. (2015). Body image and psychosocial adjustment following the amputation of a limb. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing, 4(6), https://doi.org/10.12968/joan.2015.4.6.288

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jul 1, 2015
• Deposit Date: Sep 23, 2015
• Journal: Journal of Aesthetic Nursing
• Print ISSN: 2050-3717
• Publisher: Mark Allen Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 4
• Issue: 6
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.12968/joan.2015.4.6.288
• Keywords: body image, limb amputation, prosthetics, visible difference
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/831655
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/joan.2015.4.6.288