The experiences of living with limb loss : A qualitative exploration

Bullimore, Joe and Murray, Craig and Molyneaux, Victoria (2026) The experiences of living with limb loss : A qualitative exploration. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This thesis aims to explore the psychological experiences of living with limb loss using qualitative methods. It is comprised of a systematic literature review, an empirical research paper and a critical appraisal of the research approach. The systematic literature review synthesised qualitative studies examining the experiences of individuals with diabetic limb loss. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the 16 studies chosen for this paper. Five analytical themes were identified from the data: Living with a loss of independence; Enduring a sense of ongoing loss, threat and uncertainty; Identity disruption and reconstruction; Adjustment through coping and meaning-making; The influence of healthcare and structural contexts on lived experience. The findings illustrated the extensive psychological impact of diabetic limb loss and emphasised the importance of continuous, psychologically-informed care during rehabilitation. The empirical paper examined how individuals experienced and coped with phantom limb pain in the early post-operative period following lower-limb amputation. Seven participants took part in semi-structured interviews which were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Six themes were generated: Making sense of an “impossible” pain; Coping with PLP in the absence of professional information and support; Finding agency amid ongoing feelings of helplessness; Acceptance as a pragmatic and necessary response to PLP; “I won’t be limited” – mindset and preserving identity as a means of coping with PLP; Coping with PLP through comparison and shared understanding. The findings highlighted the complex psychological processes involved in coping with phantom limb pain and identified the need for improved support around education and support using psychological and relational approaches during early rehabilitation. Lastly, the critical appraisal explored the methodological, reflexive and ethical considerations of the research process, as well as my own reflections and the strengths and limitations. Implications for future research and clinical practice were also discussed.