June conference to discuss the results

“Our bodies, Our views!: Children and young people’s attitudes to their prosthesis” Pictures and presentations are now on the website. Click here to view

PRESS RELEASE  to announce the study.

In our image conscious world having any visible difference is challenging, to say the least. For young people who use prostheses (artificial limbs) it can be particularly difficult. The appearance of the prosthesis can have a significant effect on the psychological well-being of the wearer and it is easy to feel different and excluded.

In the hopes that such issues can be addressed, a study has begun exploring issues of appearance and choice of prostheses for young people with limb loss.

steps and the Meningitis Trust collaborative partners in the study,  announced that the University of Southampton will be carrying out this research, which is being funded by the Big Lottery Fund

"This is a crucial study" says Philip Kirby, Chief Executive of the Meningitis Trust. "We hope that the findings of this study will better inform those involved in prescribing prostheses of the impact that choice and the appearance of a prosthesis has on young people."

"This research is also very unique as it is entirely child centred," says Sue Banton, Director of steps. "As far as I know it will be the first time children and young people will be directly asked about how they feel about choice and the appearance of their artificial limb."

An important aim of the research is to provide information to those supporting youths with limb loss (including family members, rehabilitation experts and teachers) on how adjustment can be best facilitated and distress minimised.

During its development, a variety of experts were consulted, including clinicians and technicians from the Birmingham Limb Fitting Centre as well as young people who use prostheses.

"Throughout my childhood I was preoccupied with the appearance of my prosthesis and this has negatively influenced my self-esteem and body image," says Laura. "This research will be crucial in highlighting the impact that the appearance of a prosthesis has on a child's development."

The research team at the School of Health Professions and Rehabilitation Sciences consists of Professor Lucy Yardley, Lecturer in Health Psychology Maggie Donovan-Hall and Research Fellow Suryana Mohamad.

"I am very excited that the project has begun," says Donovan-Hall. "It developed out of a previous research project of mine which looked at the effects of the appearance of prostheses in adults," she adds.

Donovan-Hall says it was during this project she realised studies focusing on children with prostheses were lacking.

"It will be great to find out what children and young people have to say about their prosthesis as previous studies have focused on parents and what they think," adds Suryana.