A Qualitative Exploration of Limb Loss

Havlin, Heather and Murray, Craig (2022) A Qualitative Exploration of Limb Loss. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This thesis offers a qualitative exploration of the experience of living with limb loss and is comprised of a literature review, research paper and critical appraisal of the research process. The literature review synthesised qualitative research exploring the experience of amputation and rehabilitation for members of the military. The results from 16 papers were synthesised using a meta-ethnographic approach and three themes were developed from the data: ‘Making the physical and psychological transition to life after amputation’, ‘The role of the military culture in rehabilitation’ and ‘The impact of relationships and the gaze of others during rehabilitation and beyond’. Findings highlighted the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life, the helpfulness of the military culture and identity during rehabilitation, and the importance of relationships and the perceived views of others. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed along with suggestions for further research. The research paper explored the meaning and experience of sport participation and identity for people following limb loss. Nine participants were interviewed, and data analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four themes were developed from the data: ‘Enabling a feeling of normality and equality’, ‘Becoming a better person’, ‘Belonging and connection’, and ‘Experiencing and responding to the gaze of others’. The findings demonstrated the impact of taking part in sport on the sense of self and identity, and the personal benefits it brought. Findings are discussed in relation to existing literature and implications for clinical practice are highlighted. Finally, the critical appraisal explored the strengths and limitations of the research paper, along with personal reflections on the process of carrying out the research. Salient points that presented along the course of the research, including the challenges of carrying out research amongst this population, language used, and the impact of the researcher during the process are also discussed.