400 Section - Patient Perceptions of Success at Discharge and the Amputation Rehabilitation Experience: A Qualitative Study

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM PT

Presenting Author/Autor expositor(s)

CF

Courtney Frengopoulos, MD

Resident, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Co-Author/Coautor(s)

AL

Angela Lin, MD

Resident
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
HP

Hannah Prins, n/a

Student
McMaster University
Missisauga, Ontario, Canada
JM

Jessica Murphy, PhD

Research Coordinator
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
SG

Sharon Grad, MD

Associate Professor, Medicine
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Celina Lin, MD, FRCPC, Dip. Sport Med

Physician
Hamilton Health Sciences and Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Objectives : Traditional approaches to physical rehabilitation have emphasized quantitative functional outcomes; however, the biopsychosocial model underscores the importance of understanding patients’ emotional, psychological, and social experiences. For individuals undergoing prosthetic rehabilitation, staff interactions, peer support, and mental wellbeing may critically influence recovery. Yet, qualitative evidence exploring these factors within inpatient prosthetic rehabilitation programs remains limited. The objective of this study was to explore the lived experiences of patients participating in a specialized prosthetic rehabilitation program, focusing on perceptions of success, peer support and the transition home.

Design: This qualitative study employed a Constructivist Grounded Theory approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 participants (mean age 58.0 ± 16.4 years) prior to discharge from a prosthetic rehabilitation program in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Interviews were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Rigour was ensured through multiple coders, an audit trail, reflexivity, and use of thick description.

Results: Seventeen patients participated in this study. Three main themes were identified (1) Program Staff and Structure, (2) Peer Support and Community, and (3) Mental Wellbeing and Mindset. Participants highlighted the individualized, encouraging, and personable approach of staff as central to motivation and recovery. The structures and informal peer interactions provided shared motivation, a sense of community and normalization of their experience, however comparisons led to discouragement at times. Participants also balanced optimism and anxiety throughout rehabilitation, reframing success from walking ability to broader goals such as independence, confidence, and participation. The transition home also evoked mixed emotions, emphasizing the need for continued support during rehabilitation transitions.

Conclusion: This study provides insight into the lived experience of individuals participating in prosthetic rehabilitation. The findings emphasize the value of supportive and personable care, the benefits of peer support and sense of community, as well as the importance of clear communication to positively influence the patient experience.