Upper extremity injuries in sub-Saharan Africa

Upper extremity injuries have significant negative effects on personal safety, physical functioning, quality of life, body image and self-concept. In this literature review we present a state of the art for upper extremity impairments in African low- and middle-income countries, with a focus on impairments that have a significant impact on the ability to perform activities of daily living. First, we summarize studies investigating the impact of upper extremity amputation and stroke, and discuss how the treatment and rehabilitation of upper extremity injuries could benefit from telehealth applications. We conclude by discussing how telehealth applications could help increase health care access to those that most need it.