Exploring How Expressive Art Interventions Impact Adults with Amputations

Abstract

This study aims to understand how expressive art therapy interventions can impact adults with amputations. The 44 resources implemented in this thesis helped build a literary foundation and formulated themes seen within the literature. These themes included distorted self-image, feelings of loss and grief, complications with adjustment in daily life and with a prosthesis, phantom limb pain, changes to independent living and autonomy, and inadequate education pre- and-post-amputation. Four groups were proposed to inform, provide insight, and address the psychophysiological needs of individuals with amputations. Art therapy was utilized in all four groups. Three of the four groups integrated guided imagery, yoga, and boxing to enhance the therapeutic experience and achieve goals. Various needs of individuals with amputations were identified through an integrative narrative review research study. A literature matrix was used for data organization, and for data categorization, a thematic analysis was used (Betts & Deaver, 2019). These proposed groups can be used to track progress within the rehabilitation setting. These groups can increase a sense of safety, feelings of control and coherent communication, emotion regulation, strength through yoga and boxing exercises, acceptance of new body/ limitations, autonomy, mastery, strength, and confidence, foster a sense of community, and allow participants to self-reflect on their amputation journey. Expressive art therapies are beneficial for individuals with limb loss and should be implemented in rehabilitation to provide a transitional object that can help ease the transition from hospital to home.