Effect of participation in physical activity on body image of amputees.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine body image in individuals with amputations and to determine if a relationship exists between body image and level of participation in physical activity and sports. A secondary objective was to examine correlations between two body-image assessments. A nonrandomized survey was given to a convenience-volunteer sample of individuals of at least 18 yr of age with a lower limb amputation. Twenty-four participants were active and 32 were minimally active. Statistical significance was preset at P < 0.05, with a 95% confidence interval. An overall significant difference was found between groups on the MBSRQ and on three of the 10 MBSRQ subscales. Significant correlations were found between six MBSRQ subscales and the ABIS. A positive relationship was found between regular participation in physical activity and body image among lower limb amputees.