A Study of Psychological Correlates after Amputation

BackgroundAmputation of a limb affects almost all aspects of an individual's life. Psychological aspects are important factors for adjustment with the disability.MethodsThe present study was carried out on 50 consecutive male patients admitted to the Artificial Limb Centre. Base line and post therapy psychological assessment was carried out on Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Trauma Symptom Inventory (TSI) was administered along with Millon Index of personality styles (MIPS). Psychological intervention was given to them on a therapy module proposed by authors. Data was analyzed with the help of SPSS.ResultFindings revealed significant differences in scores on HADS, before and after therapy (p<0.05). On Trauma symptom Inventory defensive avoidance and depression were noted to be above cut off level of (>65). Predominant personality styles were self indulgence and internally focused in motivating styles (mean prevalence score <50) and thought guided in thinking styles, dominating and controlling in behaving styles. The analysis of prevalence score of above 50 and less than 50 indicated Confident/Asserting (9B), Submissive / Yielding (11A), having significant change after therapy on score of anxiety (P<0.05). The personality dimension of dutiful and conforming had shown significant influence after therapy (P<0.05) on score of depression.ConclusionThe findings indicated psychological assessment and intervention is to be included as a part of the management after amputation.