Upper Limb Prosthetics

Upper Limb Prosthetics:
Enhancing Mobility and Independence

Upper-limb prosthetics play a crucial role in restoring function and improving the quality of life for individuals who have lost an arm or hand. These advanced devices range from mechanical hands to complex prosthetics for shoulder disarticulations. Below is a detailed look at the various types of upper-limb prosthetics available.

Type of Prosthetic

  • Mechanical Hand: A simple, body-powered device for basic hand functions like grasping and holding.
  • Below-Elbow Prosthetics: Prosthetics are designed for amputations below the elbow, offering a natural range of motion.
  • Above-Elbow Prosthetics Prosthetics for amputations above the elbow, including elbow and hand functions.
  • Shoulder Disarticulation Prosthetics: Advanced prosthetics for amputations at the shoulder level, providing full arm functionality.

Mechanical Hand: Precision and Functionality

Mechanical hands are fundamental prosthetic devices designed to restore basic hand functions. These devices are often body-powered and utilise a system of cables and harnesses to control the hand's movement.

Functionality:

Mechanical hands can perform a variety of basic tasks, such as grasping, holding, and releasing objects. They provide essential hand functions to enhance daily living activities.

Durability:

Constructed with robust materials, mechanical hands are designed to withstand daily wear and tear.

Affordability:

These prosthetics are typically more affordable than myoelectric or bionic hands, making them accessible to a broader range of users.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Upper Limb Prosthetics

  • What are upper limb prosthetics?
    Upper-limb prosthetics are devices designed to replace the function of an arm or hand that has been lost due to injury, illness, or congenital conditions. These prosthetics range from mechanical hands to complex devices for shoulder disarticulations.
  • How do mechanical hands work?
    Mechanical hands are typically body-powered and use a system of cables and harnesses to control the hand's movement. By using shoulder or chest movements, the user can open and close the hand to perform basic tasks like grasping, holding, and releasing objects.
  • What is the difference between below-elbow and above-elbow prosthetics?
    Below-the-elbow prosthetics, also known as transradial prosthetics, are designed for individuals who have lost part of their arm below the elbow. These prosthetics offer a wide range of motion and functionality. Above-elbow prosthetics, or transhumeral prosthetics, are for those with amputations above the elbow, replacing both the elbow and hand functions.
  • How are prosthetics for shoulder disarticulation different?
    Shoulder disarticulation prosthetics are designed for amputations at the shoulder level and are the most complex type of upper limb prosthetics. They need to replicate shoulder, elbow, and hand functions, often using multiple control systems such as myoelectric and body-powered mechanisms.
  • What are myoelectric prosthetics?
    Myoelectric prosthetics use electrical signals generated by the muscles in the residual limb to control the prosthetic. These signals are detected by electrodes and are used to operate the prosthetic hand or arm, providing greater precision and natural movement.
Upper Limb Prosthetics
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