GGEM: Gender, Geography, and EMployment differences based on mobility levels among lower limb prosthesis users living in the United States

Abstract

Background: For individuals with a disability, an increase in functional mobility may improve their quality of life and well-being. Greater understanding is needed on how factors such as gender, geography, and employment may play a role in mobility levels among individuals with lower limb amputation. Objectives: To assess the relationship between gender, geography, and employment status on mobility among lower limb prosthesis users. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 7,524 patient mobility outcomes completed across the United States was performed. The regression model included the independent variables, such as age, gender, region, employment status, and amputation level. Mobility was entered as the dependent variable. Results: Individuals who were employed had 3.6 times the odds of reaching increased mobility (Prosthetic Limb Users’ Survey of Mobility ≥ 50) than those unemployed (odds ratio 3.56, 95% confidence interval 3.10–4.09). Gender and geography were significantly associated with mobility as well. Conclusions: Being employed is associated with greater odds of reaching increased mobility. Addressing factors such as returning to employment may aid in improving mobility levels among prosthesis users.