Do you use an upper limb prosthesis? How well does it work? What are you able to do when using your prosthesis? Is one type of prosthesis or terminal device better than another? Researchers at the Providence VA Medical Center invite you to provide your feedback.
What is the study all about? We are testing how well upper limb prosthesis users can do everyday activities, and comparing abilities of people who use different types of prosthetic systems. We hope to include up to 200 participants. We need your help to make this the largest study comparing upper limb prosthetic devices, controls, and suspension methods!
Why is this study important? This study will help us understand how different types of prostheses and terminal devices compare to each other. This study will provide evidence to help consumers and clinicians make informed choices about upper limb prosthetic devices. It will also provide comparative data that can be used to evaluate the benefits of new technologies. Our results will be useful to the amputee community, and to third-party payers who seek evidence about the benefits of newer and more expensive technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Unilateral, Major Upper Limb Amputation (between the shoulder and wrist)
- Use a Body-Powered, Myoelectric, or Hybrid Prosthesis
- Understand study requirement & informed consent in English without an interpreter
- Must be at least 18 years of age
What is required to participate? If you meet study eligibility criteria and are interested in being a part of our study, you will travel to one of our 3 study sites (Richmond, VA, San Antonio, TX, Tampa, FL) to participate. A study therapist will evaluate your limb and your prosthesis, you will be asked to complete surveys and be tested to see how well you are able to do everyday activities using your prosthesis. Study participation involves one visit. Study activities on-site take about 4 hours.
Is there compensation? All participants will receive compensation for their time. If you live more than two hours from the study site, we can pay for travel.
What happens next? For more information and to determine if you are eligible, please contact the study Deputy Project Coordinator, John Davey, at 401-273-7100 x16535 or John.Davey@va.gov.
Help spread the word! Do you know someone else uses an upper limb prostheses? Please ask them to participate too!