Perception vs. Performance: Unlocking Prosthetic Potential

For individuals using upper limb prostheses, the journey toward functionality often involves a mix of challenges and triumphs. A recent study, The Relationship Between Perceived and Actual Function in Upper Limb Prosthesis Users (conducted from July 2018 to March 2019 and published thereafter), highlights a critical disconnect between perceived function—what users believe they can achieve—and actual performance as measured by clinical tests. This gap not only underscores the complexity of prosthetic rehabilitation but also presents opportunities to improve care and device design.

At Marins Med, we strive to ensure our products, like the ProHensor, address both the practical and perceived needs of users. In doing so, we aim to enhance user satisfaction and reduce the high abandonment rates commonly associated with prosthetic devices.

The Disconnect: Perception vs. Performance

A study involving 61 upper-limb prosthetic users found that patient-reported outcomes (PROs) often fail to align with performance-based metrics. Specifically:

 

• PROs like the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire reflect users’ subjective experiences and perceived abilities but lack direct observation of task performance.
• Performance-based measures like the Box and Blocks Test (BBT) and the Capacity Assessment of Prosthesis Performance for the Upper Limb (CAPPFUL) evaluate actual functionality during specific activities.

 

Interestingly, while body-powered prostheses showed strong performance in dexterity tests like the BBT, users of hybrid prostheses faced challenges in more complex tasks, as assessed by CAPPFUL. This variance underscores the need to address both the tangible functionality of devices and users’ perceptions of their capabilities. Read the full study here.

Perception Is Reality

The saying “perception is reality” rings particularly true in prosthetic rehabilitation. Users who perceive a prosthesis as beneficial are more likely to integrate it into their lives and unlock its full potential. This mindset is a key component of successful outcomes and highlights the psychological aspect of prosthetic use.

The Power of a Positive Mindset

 

• Confidence Enhances Performance: Believing in a device’s capabilities often encourages users to push their limits, leading to actual improvements in performance.
• Emotional Connection: When users feel their prosthesis is an extension of themselves, they are more likely to engage in activities that improve their overall quality of life.

 

Marins Med’s approach includes educating users and fostering a mindset of empowerment. By aligning the perceived and actual benefits of our devices, we aim to make every interaction with the ProHensor a step toward greater independence and self-confidence.

Marins Med: Meeting Practical and Perceived Needs

At Marins Med, we understand that creating a successful prosthetic device involves more than just engineering—it requires empathy and a deep understanding of user needs. Here’s how we ensure our products meet both practical and perceived expectations:

 

1. User-Centric Design: The ProHensor’s features, such as its self-actuated locking system and field-serviceable parts, address real-world challenges while fostering a sense of reliability and independence.
2. Clinical Feedback Loops: Collaborations with clinicians ensure our designs align with both performance-based metrics and user-reported outcomes.
3. Education and Support: We provide resources to help users understand their device’s full capabilities, empowering them to see—and realize—its potential.

 

Addressing Perception and Performance Gaps

At Marins Med, we recognize that aligning the practical and perceived functionality of prosthetic devices is essential to improving user outcomes. While clinicians play a critical role in guiding rehabilitation, our focus remains on supporting them with high-quality, user-centered solutions and empowering individuals to maximize the potential of their prostheses.

To this end, we:

 

1. Collaborate Closely with Clinicians: By incorporating their expertise and feedback into our design processes, we ensure our devices meet the demands of real-world use.
2. Educate Users on Device Capabilities: Clear and engaging resources help users understand and fully utilize the features of devices like the ProHensor.
3. Promote Positive User Experiences: Through innovative design and support, we aim to foster confidence and long-term satisfaction among prosthetic  users. Bridging the gap between perception and performance is not just a clinical challenge—it’s an opportunity to redefine what’s possible for prosthetic users. By addressing both functional metrics and the psychological dimensions of prosthetic use, we can help individuals move beyond perceived limitations and toward a future of untapped potential.

 

At Marins Med, we’re proud to contribute to this journey with innovative solutions like the ProHensor. Together with clinicians and users, we’re not just building devices—we’re shaping experiences and changing lives.