What aspect is important when evaluating a TH amputee's functional performance with a prosthesis?

Evaluating the functional performance of a transhumeral (TH) amputee with a prosthesis is fundamentally centered around the individual's ability to engage in daily activities and achieve mobility. Endurance and balance play crucial roles in this assessment.

Endurance reflects the amputee's capacity to maintain activity over time, which can significantly affect how well they manage tasks such as walking, reaching, or performing duties that may require prolonged effort. Likewise, balance is essential for stability, especially as it allows the individual to perform movements safely without the risk of falls or injuries. Both aspects are vital for ensuring that the individual can navigate their environment effectively and adapt their prosthesis use within various contexts of their daily life.

While the age of the prosthesis, its cosmetic appearance, and its weight may have implications in different areas, they do not directly gauge the amputee's functional capabilities. The key focus in this context is on the individual's performance and how well they can integrate the prosthetic device into their lifestyle, which fundamentally depends on their endurance and balance. Thus, these factors are paramount in assessing and improving functional outcomes for TH amputees using prosthetics.