Physical activity and quality of life of amputees in southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND

Physical activity is a positive component of human health. Its effects are associated with improvement in physical, psychological and social aspects of quality of life. Physical activity is therefore an important factor in the rehabilitation of amputees.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the relationship between physical activity and quality of life for amputees in southern Brazil.

STUDY

DESIGN

Descriptive, cross-sectional design with nonrandomized sample.

METHODS

A total of 40 questionnaire instruments were distributed to subjects who met the inclusion criteria, with a response rate of 55% (22 individuals, n = 15 males, n = 7 females). Outcome measurements were obtained through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and World Health Organization Quality of Life-Bref.

RESULTS

The sample was characterized by physically active adult male prosthetic users with positive quality of life, and amputation below the right knee caused by mechanical trauma related to traffic accidents with motorcycles. Significant correlations were identified between all domains of quality of life and between level of physical activity and psychological quality of life. No correlation was identified between gender and quality of life variables or physical activity levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that in very active amputees of both genders, level of physical activity is not associated with quality of life except for the psychological domain.