Upper limb absence: Effects on body functions and structures, musculoskeletalcomplaints, and functional capacity

This research studied the consequences of living with one arm, due to a reduction deficiency (congenital amputation) or an acquired amputation, on the remaining body structures. First differences in body halves were examined, showing that the circumference of the thorax and arm was smaller on the affected side. After that, prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in this population was examined. A questionnaire revealed that two thirds of all participants had musculoskeletal complaints during the past hear. These complaints were most often located in the high back and neck, and in the non-affected limb. The complaints caused disability in daily life and decreased work productivity. Individuals of middle age, being divorced/widowed and with decreased mental health were most vulnerable. Furthermore, an instrument was developed to examine the functional capacity of these individuals. The instrument consists of several physical tests and examines the influence of body functions and structures on activity. Moreover, a scale was developed to examine so-called compensatory movements. These are movements that the body makes in order to compensate for the lost of function of certain body parts, in this case due to the absence of a hand. This instrument and the scale for compensatory movements may possibly be a valuable addition to current rehabilitation care of individuals with a reduction deficiency or acquired amputation of the arm.