Physical impairments as risk factors for the development of posttraumatic stress disorder

The case-control method, a retrospective design useful in studying the etiology of rare diseases, was utilized to examine the relative risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among individuals with six types of traumatic physical impairments. Odds ratios and associated confidence intervals were calculated for each impairment in a group of 45,320 veterans receiving medical services, Four of thr six impairments were found to be risk factors for PTSD. Implications for rehabilitation counseling and research are discussed.