PERSONALIZED REHABILITATION STRATEGIES FOLLOWING LOWER LIMB AMPUTATION: CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOMES

Abstract

Objective. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical rehabilitation protocol for patients following lower limb amputation, taking into account prosthetic fitting specifics and gait skill development. Materials and Methods. The study included 20 patients with transtibial amputations. The rehabilitation program integrated therapeutic exercise, physiotherapy, massage, robotic-assisted technologies, and psychological support. Effectiveness was assessed using indicators of muscle strength, balance, coordination, functional mobility, and quality of life. Results. Implementation of the program led to significant improvements in rehabilitation outcomes. Patients demonstrated measurable gains in lower limb muscle strength, enhanced postural control, improved coordination, and better walking parameters. Average gait speed increased by more than 20%, and step length and cadence became more symmetrical compared to baseline. In the 6-Minute Walk Test, patients extended their average walking distance from 260 m at baseline to 320 m after completing the program, indicating greater endurance. Balance performance also improved, with mean Berg Balance Scale scores rising from 42 to 48 points, reflecting more stable mobility. Functional mobility scores increased across all amputation levels, with transtibial amputees showing the most pronounced progress. Importantly, the structured protocol reduced rehabilitation duration by approximately 3 weeks on average and facilitated earlier adaptation to the prosthesis. Psychological support played a crucial role in helping patients overcome fear of falling, enhancing motivation, and promoting consistent use of the prosthesis in daily life. Overall, the combined multidisciplinary approach ensured higher mobility levels, faster reintegration into daily activities, and substantial improvements in self-reported quality of life across both physical and psychosocial domains. Conclusions. The proposed rehabilitation program proved effective for optimizing recovery after lower limb amputation. Its application in clinical practice can improve functional outcomes and quality of life and may be recommended for wider use in rehabilitation services.