Why Patient-Reported Function May Not Tell the Whole Story

By Marins Med

When it comes to evaluating how well a prosthetic device helps someone regain function, the first question often asked is, “How do you feel about using it?” This is an important question because a person’s experience with their prosthesis plays a huge role in whether they will continue using it. But as new research suggests, how a person feels about their function does not always match their actual ability to perform everyday tasks.

A study published in Archives of Rehabilitation Research and Clinical Translation by Xuyuan Zhang, Kerstin S. Baun, Lauren Trent, John Miguelez, and Kimberly Kontson aimed to better understand this difference. The researchers examined how well self-reported function aligned with real-world ability in people who use upper limb prosthetic devices. Their findings suggest that while self-reports are useful, they do not always provide the full picture of a person’s functional ability.

The Difference Between Perceived and Actual Function

In this study, researchers worked with 61 individuals who use upper limb prosthetics. Participants were asked to report how well they believed they could perform daily tasks. Then, their actual ability was measured using two performance-based tests. One test evaluated how many blocks they could move within a set time, while the other tested their ability to perform everyday activities like zipping a jacket or turning a doorknob.

The results showed that what participants believed about their function did not always match their measured performance. Some people thought they functioned better than they actually did, while others underestimated their ability.

Why Does This Matter?

For clinicians, prosthetists, and researchers, this study highlights an important issue: if decisions about prosthetic care are based only on self-reported information, they may miss key details about how well a person can actually use their device. This could impact:

• Prosthetic Fittings – If a person reports being satisfied with their prosthesis but struggles with real-world tasks, adjustments or training could help improve their function.
• Insurance Coverage – Many funding decisions are based on self-reported outcomes. If self-reports don’t tell the full story, people might not get access to the best possible care.
• Prosthetic Development – Designers and manufacturers benefit from knowing how prosthetic devices perform in real-world situations, not just how people feel about using them.

What This Means for Prosthetic Users

If you use a prosthesis, this research suggests it’s helpful to think beyond how the device feels and also consider how well it supports your daily activities. If you experience difficulties, it might not mean the device isn’t working—it may just need adjustments or additional training. A combination of self-reporting and performance-based testing can help ensure you get the best possible fit and function.

At Marins Med, we design our products with real-world use in mind. Research like this reinforces why it’s essential to focus on both comfort and function when developing prosthetic solutions. The ProHensor is designed to help users perform tasks effectively, ensuring that both the perception of function and actual ability align as closely as possible.

By combining research insights with real-life feedback, we can continue to improve prosthetic technology and help users achieve their highest level of function.