Reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Prosthesis Embodiment Scale for Lower Limb Amputees.

Background: Prosthetic embodiment is the perception of the prosthesis as a part of the body, and it is important for acceptance and adequate and effective use of the prosthesis.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Prosthesis Embodiment Scale for Lower Limb Amputees.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 88 lower limb amputees. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach α coefficient. The test-retest reliability of the scale, which was reapplied after 7-10 d, was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficient. Principal component analysis with Varimax rotation was used to analyze the factor structure. Spearman correlation coefficient with Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scale subscales was calculated for concurrent validity.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 45.13 ± 15.05 years, and 76.1% were male. Internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.905) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.822) were high. 76.1% of the total variance could be explained by the 3 dimensions. Significant correlation was found with the Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scale subscales (r = 0.542 for psychosocial adjustment subscale, r = -0.452 for activity restriction subscale, r = 0.490 for prosthesis satisfaction subscale, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the Turkish version of the Prosthesis Embodiment Scale for Lower Limb Amputees is a valid and reliable tool that can be used to evaluate prosthetic rehabilitation outcomes.