{"title":"Effects of orthotic devices and sensor feedback on the trunk and pelvis kinematics during gait of transfemoral amputees.","authors":"Junji Katsuhira, Kodai Iwashita, Yusuke Ohno, Arito Yozu","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000458","DOIUrl":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000458","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Continuous training with expert monitoring is challenging and often restricted to hospitals or rehabilitation facilities.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To design a feedback system using orthotic devices and inertial sensors to align the pelvis and trunk in transfemoral amputee gait and to investigate its kinematic effects.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Within-subjects design.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Ten transfemoral amputees participated in this study. We developed a device that integrated an orthotic device and inertial sensor fixed to the trunk and pelvis, providing feedback. The participants performed walking trials without attachments, with only sensors with audible warning of inclination, with only the orthotic device, and with both the sensors and orthotic device.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>No significant differences in the similarity index parameters were observed under the 4 conditions; however, significant effects emerged in the trunk rotation and lateral bending ranges of motion (ROM; P < 0.05). Similar effects were observed in the anterior-posterior pelvic tilt, pelvic rotation, and lateral bending ROMs. The rotation and lateral flexion ROMs during the prosthetic leg stance phase decreased with combined orthotic device and sensor feedback or with only the orthotic device. Similarly, the lateral flexion ROM during the healthy leg stance phase decreased with sensor feedback. The pelvic lateral flexion ROM decreased during the prosthetic leg stance phase with only the orthotic device or combined sensor use, and rotation decreased with sensor-only feedback.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Unlike in the ROM, no noticeable change in the similarity index of the trunk or pelvis was observed. This combined feedback system may partially reduce compensatory movements in the trunk and pelvis during transfemoral amputee gait.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":"304-312"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144276456","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Busra Kandemir, Gozde Yagci, Serkan Uysal, Yucel Akkas, Fatih Erbahceci
{"title":"The effects of Schroth-based exercise therapy in adolescents with pectus excavatum: A controlled clinical trial.","authors":"Busra Kandemir, Gozde Yagci, Serkan Uysal, Yucel Akkas, Fatih Erbahceci","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000545","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000545","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Because of the scarcity of research on exercise methods for pectus excavatum, further exploration in this area is necessary. This study aims to examine the effects of Schroth-based exercise therapy in adolescents with Pectus excavatum (PE).</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To investigate the effects of Schroth-based exercise therapy in adolescents with pectus excavatum.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Controlled clinical trial.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study included 35 adolescents: vacuum plus exercise group (n = 19) and vacuum group (n = 16). Deformity severity was assessed with the anthropometric index. Sagittal posture was analyzed from lateral photographs, thoracic cage mobility with chest circumference, and spinal/lumbar mobility with the sit and reach and modified Schober tests. Muscle endurance was evaluated with sit-ups and the lateral bridge test. Disease-specific quality of life was assessed with the Nuss Questionnaire and its parent form, and general quality of life with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Repeated measure-Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant group × time interactions for various parameters: sagittal spinal posture, including the craniovertebral angle (F1,33 = 5.757; p = 0.022), thoracic angle (F1,33 = 17.901; p = <0.001), thoracolumbar angle (F1,33 = 16.195; p = 0.002), lumbar angle (F1,33 = 16.195; p = <0.001), and the physical functioning subscale (F1,33 = 9.029; p = 0.005) and the total score of the Nuss Questionnaire-Child (F1,33 = 4.868; p = 0.034), and the Nuss Questionnaire-Parent score (F1,33 = 5.598; p = 0.024). There were no significant group × time interactions for deformity severity, mobility, endurance, and general quality of life parameters (p > 0.05).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Schroth-based exercise therapy, when combined with vacuum treatment, is more effective than vacuum treatment alone in improving sagittal spinal posture and deformity-specific quality of life in adolescents with PE.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147989634","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Natiara Mohamad Hashim, Ahmad Dzuharuddin Othman, Abdul Halim Abdullah, Muhammad Hanif Ramlee, Noor Ayuni Che Zakaria
{"title":"Translating patient-centered goals into 3D-printed assistive and prosthetic devices: A multidisciplinary clinical framework.","authors":"Natiara Mohamad Hashim, Ahmad Dzuharuddin Othman, Abdul Halim Abdullah, Muhammad Hanif Ramlee, Noor Ayuni Che Zakaria","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000546","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000546","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The use of 3-dimensional (3D) printing in the development of assistive adaptive devices (AADs) and prostheses has expanded rapidly, offering opportunities for patient-specific customization and iterative design. Despite this growth, there remains limited guidance on how 3D printing can be systematically integrated into routine clinical practice within a multidisciplinary rehabilitation framework. This case series presents a goal-oriented, multidisciplinary approach for the clinical implementation of 3D printing in the development of AAD and prostheses. Seven customized AAD or prosthetic devices were developed through collaboration between a rehabilitation physician, an occupational therapist, and a mechanical engineer. Device recommendation and design were guided by predefined patient-centered functional goals. Outcomes were evaluated using goal attainment scale, allowing individualized assessment relative to each patient's baseline function and intended device purpose. Across the 7 cases, the fabricated devices achieved their predefined functional goals to varying degrees, reflecting the heterogeneity of impairments and individual priorities. The application of goal attainment scale enabled structured outcome evaluation while preserving patient-centered goal individualization. This study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a multidisciplinary, goal-oriented framework that integrates 3D printing into clinical rehabilitation practice, supporting the translation of patient needs into functional assistive and prosthetic solutions.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147950037","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Gait characteristics of unilateral transtibial amputees: A narrative review.","authors":"Xinyu Fu, Xingxing Fang, Xinming Wu, Xinhui Zhang, Shousheng Zhang, Wei Tang, Hang Xu","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000551","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000551","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Independent ambulation is a critical motor skill for transtibial amputee (TTA), and gait analysis plays an essential role in both basic and clinical research. This review provides a narrative summary of the literature on TTA gait, based on specific inclusion criteria, including studies published in English, focused on adult participants, conducted with no external interference during the experimental process, asymptomatic amputees, and nonpathological gait studies. We identified biomechanical studies of TTA gait and reported significant gait characteristics and adaptive strategies among amputees. Gait biomechanics vary according to factors such as walking speed, prosthetic alignment, and experience with the residual limb. Furthermore, gait patterns are influenced by the adaptation and maturation of the neuromuscular and skeletal systems in response to prosthetic use. This review offers valuable theoretical insights into TTA gait for clinicians and researchers. Future research could benefit from systematically recruiting subjects with more stringent criteria, employing larger sample sizes, and conducting longitudinal studies. In addition, empirical analysis of prosthetic designs before clinical application and the effects of various rehabilitation interventions on gait development should be considered to enhance mobility and gait efficiency in this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147949986","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hank White, Edie Hall McClellan, Eric Miller, Janet Walker
{"title":"How well do you know the patient standing before you?","authors":"Hank White, Edie Hall McClellan, Eric Miller, Janet Walker","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000550","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000550","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>There is a paucity of knowledge about personality traits of children and adolescents with lower limb differences. This study investigated the following: (1) comparison of personality traits of patients with limb differences to the general population; (2) comparison of male and female personality traits; and (3) comparison of personality traits, based on the five-factor model, between persons who had lower limb amputation at a young age vs. an older age.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Thirty participants with unilateral lower limb differences completed Inventory of Children's Individual Differences (short version) during a routine clinical visit.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Mean raw scores for openness to experience and agreeableness personality traits were statistically higher for participants with amputations compared with published general population. However, only the frequency distributions of T scores of the Inventory of Children's Individual Differences-Short Version were statistically different for agreeableness personality trait between the 2 groups. There were no significant differences for all personality traits between participants grouped by age at amputation. Male participants scored lower than female participants on all 5 personality traits, but these differences were not statistically significant.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The personality traits of children and adolescents with unilateral lower limb differences demonstrate small differences compared with the general population's personality traits. Although treatment decisions for prosthetic care cannot be made based only on the patient's personality traits, an appraisal of the patient's personality may assist the patient's and clinician's decisions in developing a personalized rehabilitation treatment plan.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147949978","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Linda J Resnik, Matthew L Borgia, Jill M Cancio, Jeffrey T Heckman
{"title":"Associations between terminal device shape and prosthesis weight and key outcomes differ for body-powered and myoelectric prosthesis users: An observational study.","authors":"Linda J Resnik, Matthew L Borgia, Jill M Cancio, Jeffrey T Heckman","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000548","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000548","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Anthropomorphic terminal device shape (shape) and prosthesis weight may affect key patient-centered outcomes. No studies have quantified these relationships or examined whether shape and weight affect body-powered and myoelectric prosthesis users differentially.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>Explore the associations between prosthesis weight, shape, and a variety of outcomes.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Multisite observational study of 232 individuals with transradial and transhumeral amputation using upper limb prosthetic devices.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Shape was classified as anthropomorphic (yes/no). Prosthesis weight was categorized as light (<1 kg), moderate (1-1.6 kg), and heavy (1.6+ kg). Primary outcomes included prosthesis satisfaction, hours of prosthesis use/day, self-reported disability, and health-related quality of life. Data were stratified by prosthesis type (body-powered (BP) and myoelectric) and bivariate comparisons examined outcomes by weight and shape. Separate multivariable linear and logistic regressions examined associations between shape and weight and outcomes, controlling for potential confounders.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>In BP users, after controlling for amputation level and other factors, heavy prostheses was associated with a 0.5 point decrease in TAPES satisfaction scores and greater odds of back (OR 25.7), neck (OR 6.4), residual limb (OR 4.2), and contralateral limb pain (OR 8.3) as compared with light prostheses. Anthropomorphic shape was associated with a 1.0 point decrease in TAPES satisfaction. In myoelectric device users, heavier weight was associated with greater odds of back pain (OR 9.9).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Heavier prostheses are associated with negative outcomes and affect BP and myoelectric users differentially. Efforts to decrease prosthesis weight may improve satisfaction and decrease prevalence of painful conditions, particularly in body-powered prosthesis users.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147949944","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Martin P Kilbane, Jeffrey Wensman, Anthony R Gutierrez, Noah J Rosenblatt, Deanna H Gates
{"title":"International prosthetists' perspectives on adjustable-volume lower limb prosthetic sockets.","authors":"Martin P Kilbane, Jeffrey Wensman, Anthony R Gutierrez, Noah J Rosenblatt, Deanna H Gates","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000533","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000533","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Adjustable-volume prosthetic sockets are designed to address residual limb volume fluctuations that temporarily alter socket fit. These systems are relatively new to the market and their global use, and the type of patient they work best for, remains unclear.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study explored global experiences and perspectives on fitting different styles of commercially available adjustable-volume prosthetic sockets.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An online survey was distributed globally to prosthetists. The survey asked about experiences with adjustable sockets, including successes, challenges, and barriers faced when fitting, and the impact of amputation level on success. Responses were statistically compared between United States (US) and non-US respondents.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Of 195 valid responses, 66.7% were from the US. Eighty-five percent of respondents had fit an adjustable socket, with those in the US more likely to fit them than those outside of the US (p = 0.001). Reported success rates ranged from 40.0% to 75.1% depending on the socket style, with no significant differences between US and non-US respondents or between amputation levels. Open-ended feedback highlighted the importance of patient selection, the timing of use, and differing views on the implications of prefabricated designs for clinical practice and access to care.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Globally, prosthetists report moderate success in fitting a variety of lower limb adjustable-volume sockets at different levels of amputation. As the market for adjustable-volume sockets continues to expand, further research is warranted to evaluate long-term outcomes across styles and amputation levels to better inform global prescription practices.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147950014","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sharon Eylon, Raafat Akil, Etzyona Eisenstein, Yael Dotan-Marom, Amihai Rigbi, Patrice L Weiss, Itzhak Siev-Ner, Dan Atar, Vladimir Goldman
{"title":"Patients with lower limb discrepancies-Long-term follow-up, quality of life, and function while mobilizing with Extension-prosthesis.","authors":"Sharon Eylon, Raafat Akil, Etzyona Eisenstein, Yael Dotan-Marom, Amihai Rigbi, Patrice L Weiss, Itzhak Siev-Ner, Dan Atar, Vladimir Goldman","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000544","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000544","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>When a child is born with or develops a lower limb discrepancy, a lifetime of functional limitations typically ensues. Lengthening surgery is commonly performed; occasionally nonsurgical treatment is chosen, i.e., the child will mobilize with a shoe lift or a personally fitted Extension-prosthesis. The literature on the long-term outcomes of surgical solutions is extensive, whereas there is only limited research describing the implications of nonsurgical alternatives. This presents a challenge when discussing the 2 options and their prognoses with newly diagnosed patients' families. The aim of this study was to provide data on the long-term quality of life (QoL) and functional capabilities of adult Extension-prosthesis users.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We reviewed medical records of patients aged 18 years and older Extension-prosthesis users between 2000-2020, including demographics and medical diagnoses. Telephone interviews were conducted on family status, education, employment, prosthetic use, mobility, pain, participation, and QoL. The interviews included validated questionnaires such as the SF-12, Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire-Mobility Scale, and Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experiences Scales-revised.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Eighty-five patients met the inclusion criteria; 35 replied (41%) to the telephone survey. Twenty-five males (71%); mean age 51.4 (SD = 16.15). Twenty-three (66%) reported having pain. All participants live independently although some need assistance in dressing and bathing. Some are active in sports, and many attended some level of tertiary education, married, and work. Many participants reported that their psychological health was better (\"very good\") than their physical health (\"good\").</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Study results include data on the potential ramifications of Extension-prosthesis treatment, enabling the health care team to assist families in making informed decisions when navigating critical choices about their child's future.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147950039","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Understanding the unheard voices: A study on the experiences and perceptions of women using external breast prosthesis in Gujarat, India.","authors":"Praveen Suthar, Neelam Namdeo, Komal Parmar, Parthasarathi Ganguly, Nitin Kumar Joshi","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000543","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000543","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and an increasing concern in India, with incidence rates rising particularly among women under 50 years old. In India, delayed diagnosis and limited access to health care often lead to mastectomy, leaving many women to face complex physical, emotional, and social challenges afterward. External breast prostheses (EBPs) are a cost-effective option for post-mastectomy recovery, but there is limited research on the long-term experiences of Indian women using EBPs.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of 35 women in Gujarat who had undergone mastectomy and used EBPs for at least 5 years. Participants were purposively chosen and interviewed using a semi-structured guide that addressed satisfaction, challenges, user needs, and suggestions for improvement. Thematic analysis was performed to identify key patterns and insights.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Most women reported high satisfaction with the adaptability, comfort, and positive impact of EBPs on self-confidence, especially when using silicone prostheses. However, challenges such as heat and perspiration, weight imbalance, durability concerns, limited product awareness, and affordability issues were noted. Participants suggested improvements including lighter, more breathable, and adjustable materials, longer warranties, enhanced counseling, and better financial access.</p><p><strong>Discussion and conclusion: </strong>Findings reveal both the psychosocial benefits and practical challenges of long-term EBP use among Indian women, aligning with global literature and emphasizing the need for patient-centered rehabilitation solutions. Although EBPs improve confidence and daily function, enhancements in design, cost, and awareness are needed. Addressing these could significantly improve life quality and rehabilitation for postmastectomy women in India.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147949998","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kierra J Falbo, Andrew H Hansen, Sara J Morgan, Tonya L Rich
{"title":"A focus group study to inform phantom limb pain assessment strategies after lower limb amputation.","authors":"Kierra J Falbo, Andrew H Hansen, Sara J Morgan, Tonya L Rich","doi":"10.1097/PXR.0000000000000541","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1097/PXR.0000000000000541","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Phantom limb pain is challenging for clinicians and researchers to measure accurately.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>The objective of this study was to use focus groups to inform phantom limb pain assessment through exploring first-hand experiences of individuals with lower limb amputation.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Focus groups were conducted virtually with individuals with lower limb amputation and phantom limb pain across the United States.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Sessions were recorded and transcribed, and qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Participants (n=13, 54% women, mean age: 61) were involved in one of four focus groups. Six themes were identified that inform measurement strategies for phantom limb pain: 1) phantom limb pain is a moving target, 2) phantom limb pain disrupts my life, 3) I make choices and trade-offs because of phantom limb pain, 4) phantom limb pain makes me feel isolated and unsure, 5) waiting out the storm, and 6) I cope with phantom limb pain by pushing forward and holding hope. Descriptions of phantom limb pain varied between participants and from episode to episode.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The heterogeneity of phantom limb pain presentation, intensity, frequency, duration, and interference in daily life suggests comprehensive assessment with traditional pain measures can be challenging. Clinicians and patients would benefit from measurement strategies developed specifically for people with limb amputation that can accurately describe and differentiate pain experiences. Accurate measurement of pain, specifically phantom limb pain, will facilitate development and testing of patient-specific treatments to reduce the impact of pain on the day-to-day life of people with limb amputation.</p>","PeriodicalId":49657,"journal":{"name":"Prosthetics and Orthotics International","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2026-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147949807","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}