Functional Limitation

A restriction or lack of ability to perform a physical or cognitive action in the manner or within the range considered typical. In the context of accessibility and rehabilitation, functional limitations are the specific constraints on what a person can do — such as limited grip strength, reduced range of motion, or difficulty with fine motor control — as distinct from a medical diagnosis, which names a condition but does not precisely describe the functional impact. Understanding functional limitations rather than relying on diagnostic labels is essential for matching individuals with appropriate assistive technologies and designing inclusive interfaces.