Barriers and facilitators associated with musculoskeletal complaints in individuals with upper limb absence - focus group results and a scoping review.

The extensive overview of 67 factors showed that facilitators and barriers for MSCs are heterogeneous and aids in a better understanding of the complex nature of MSCs. Several biomechanical and psychosocial factors contribute to MSCs, but the association with a prosthesis remains unclear. Implications for rehabilitationMusculoskeletal complaints (MSCs) are highly prevalent in the population with upper limb absence (ULA) and the overview of 67 factors could help in the prevention and treatment of MSCs.Psychosocial factors in the development and persistence of MSCs are underreported in literature, but are important contributors to MSCs according to patients.Wearing a prosthesis does not seem to be protective for the development or persistence of MSCs.Social support, especially from significant others and employers, is essential to help protect MSCs in those with ULA.