The Effectiveness of the DOD/VA Mobile Device Outcomes Based Rehabilitation Program (MDORP) for Service Members and Veterans with Lower Limb Amputation — WRNMMC DRP poster competition

Symsack A, Gaunaurd I, Springer B, Clemens S, Lucarevic J, Kristal A, Bennet C, Isaacson B, Applegate B, Gailey R, Pasquina P

This poster won the category of “Best Evidence-Based Practice” in the 12th annual DRP poster competition at WRNMMC.

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According to recent estimates, there are nearly two million people with lower limb amputation (LLA) currently living in the United States. This number is expected to double by 2050. Within the military, combat operations during the global war on terror have led to more than 1,700 service members (SMs) undergoing major limb amputation, with the majority experiencing LLA & many sustaining proximal and multiple limb loss. Those with LLA due to trauma are at a higher risk than nonamputees for multiple secondary health effects, which include joint pain, osteoarthritis, chronic lower back pain, & cardiovascular disease. In order to mitigate these adverse secondary health effects, optimize long-term function, & increase quality of life in individuals with LLA, effective rehabilitation and innovative life-long care is essential. Therefore, the Veterans Affairs (VA) & Department of Defense (DoD) implemented a program through the Joint Incentive Fund called the Mobile Device Outcomes-based Rehabilitation Program (MDORP). The primary objective of this pilot study was to determine if the implementation of MDORP improved strength, mobility, & gait quality in SMs and Veterans with LLA.