The Role of Interprofessional Teams in the Biopsychosocial Management of Limb Loss

AbstractPurpose of ReviewIndividuals undergoing amputations typically present with comorbid conditions that may adversely impact mortality, mobility, residual limb healing, mood, function, and participation. Understanding how to manage these individuals holistically is essential to optimize function and reduce complications.Recent FindingsA review of recent literature suggests that a biopsychosocial, interprofessional approach remains the recommended approach to limb loss rehabilitation. This can include the following: (1) optimizing health behaviors and fostering self-management skills; (2) assessing cognitive functioning and training use of assistive technology and compensatory strategies to facilitate learning and activities of daily living specific to limb loss (e.g., prosthetic use, novel self-care routines); (3) using empirically supported treatments for mood disorders to enhance motivation and participation in rehabilitation; and (4) managing pain and pain interference by fostering realistic expectations, teaching skills (e.g., cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness meditation), and enhancing behavioral activation.SummaryAn interprofessional rehabilitation team employing a biopsychosocial approach can reduce mortality and improve quality of life, mobility, health, function, mood, and participation.
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research