Functional Outcome Measure
A standardized assessment tool used to quantify a prosthesis user's functional ability, mobility, and quality of life before and after prosthetic intervention.
Full Definition
Functional outcome measures (FOMs) in prosthetics are validated instruments employed to objectively document a patient's performance level, guide prosthetic prescription, and support insurance authorization. Commonly used tools include the Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale, and the Prosthetic Limb Users Survey of Mobility (PLUS-M). Editors working with rehabilitation research manuscripts or insurance documents should ensure that the full name of each measure is given on first use with the acronym in parentheses. Outcome measure names are typically title-cased when referring to a specific, validated instrument.
Usage
Usage note: Title-case specific validated instrument names (e.g., Timed Up and Go). Expand acronyms on first use. Distinguish from 'functional classification' (a categorical rating such as K-level), which is a single score rather than a multi-item assessment instrument.
In Context
- "The research protocol specified the Amputee Mobility Predictor (AMP) as the primary functional outcome measure at six-month follow-up." — Clinical research protocol
- "The insurer required a completed functional outcome measure to accompany the prosthetic prescription for a microprocessor knee unit." — Insurance pre-authorization package