Arm Prostheses
Information on upper-limb prostheses at finger, hand, elbow and shoulder levels.
What are arm prostheses?
Arm prostheses are assistive medical devices designed for people who have lost part or all of the upper limb (at the level of the fingers, hand, forearm, elbow or shoulder) due to an accident, injury, illness or a congenital limb difference. They are also called upper limb prostheses.
These devices cover a wide range, from passive hands that offer a natural, simple appearance to electronically controlled hands that can imitate many hand movements. The aim is to support the person's functionality in daily life as much as possible.
Although arm prostheses cannot fully replace a natural limb, they can help the person regain mobility and independence and return to daily activities and working life. The choice of a suitable device is based on the amputation level and an individual assessment.
Arm prosthesis fittings by amputation level
The structure of an arm prosthesis depends largely on the level at which the loss occurred. You can go to the relevant page from the headings below.
Partial Hand Prosthesis
For losses at the finger, metacarpal and hand level; cosmetic, functional and electronic hand/finger prostheses built around the preserved hand structure.
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Below-Elbow Prosthesis
A transradial fitting in which the person's own elbow joint is preserved, consisting of a forearm socket, a wrist unit and a terminal device.
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Above-Elbow Prosthesis
A transhumeral fitting in which, because there is no elbow joint, an upper arm socket, a prosthetic elbow joint, a wrist and a terminal device are used together.
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Shoulder Disarticulation Prosthesis
A comprehensive system configured from the shoulder joint onward, including a torso socket, prosthetic shoulder and elbow joints, a wrist and a terminal device.
Learn moreTypes of arm prostheses and control methods
Regardless of the amputation level, the terminal device and joints can be controlled using different methods. You can go to detailed information from the headings below. The images are representative examples prepared to introduce the concepts.
Overview
An overview of prosthetic approaches at the hand, forearm, elbow and upper arm levels.
Learn moreMyoelectric (bionic) hand
An electronic hand in which grip movements are controlled by sensors that detect muscle signals.
Learn moreMyoelectric arm system
A system in which the joint and terminal device at the forearm and arm level are controlled electronically.
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Passive assistive hand
An example of a passive hand that helps hold objects steady in daily tasks.
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Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR)
A surgically supported approach that, in suitable cases, aims to access more muscle signals by rerouting nerves.
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Control app for the hand
A control app that helps adjust grip and sensitivity settings via a phone.
Learn moreWhat kind of support can an arm prosthesis provide?
An appropriately fitted arm prosthesis can increase a person's independence by helping with functions such as holding, grasping and carrying in daily tasks. Some devices are made with special ends such as grippers or hooks for specific tasks; other models are made with designs aimed at an appearance and movement closer to the natural hand. In addition to physical function, using a prosthesis can also be psychologically supportive during the adjustment process after limb loss.
- Helping with holding and grasping in activities of daily living
- Functional support with special terminal attachments for specific tasks
- Cosmetic options close to a natural appearance
- Psychological and social support during the process of adjusting to limb loss
Main types of arm prostheses
Upper limb prostheses are generally considered in three main groups. Each group has its own functions and areas of use. Determining the right type depends on the person's needs, goals and daily activities, and on the size, shape and position of the residual limb.
- Cosmetic (passive) prostheses: Primarily intended to provide a natural appearance. They can be made to match the person's skin tone and physical characteristics; although they do not offer a significant grasping function, they can provide comfort in social settings.
- Body-powered prostheses: Controlled through a cable and harness system by movements of the shoulder, chest or residual limb. With their durable structure, they are a mechanical option that may be preferred for tasks such as holding and lifting.
- Myoelectric (electronic) prostheses: Battery-powered devices controlled by muscle signals. Electrodes on the residual limb detect muscle impulses and convert them into finger movements and different grip patterns.
How do myoelectric prostheses work?
In myoelectric prostheses, electrodes placed on the residual limb detect the electrical signals generated when the person's muscles contract. These signals are processed by the device's electronic system and converted into movements such as opening and closing the hand or switching between different grip modes. Learning to produce muscle signals consciously is an important stage in using such devices effectively. The device's sensitivity, range of movements and battery management can be adjusted to the individual.
The prosthetic fitting process and points to consider
Every arm prosthesis must be adapted specifically to the person who will use it; the needs of two users are never exactly the same. The right solution is determined according to the person's limb difference, lifestyle and daily activities. This process usually requires teamwork involving the person themselves, their physician, physiotherapy and occupational therapy specialists, and a certified prosthetics-orthotics technician.
- Regular assessment of residual limb healing and socket fit
- Selection of components suited to the person's daily activities and occupation
- Rehabilitation and therapy support for learning to use the device
- Regular check-ups for comfort, safety and skin health
Frequently asked questions about arm prostheses
What types of arm prostheses are there?
There are three main groups: cosmetic (passive) prostheses, body-powered (mechanical) prostheses and myoelectric (electronic) prostheses. The suitable type is determined according to the amputation level, the condition of the residual limb and the person's daily needs.
How does the amputation level affect the prosthesis?
The higher the level, the more functions the prosthesis must take over and the more joints must be controlled. In the partial hand, the preserved hand structure is taken as the basis, whereas at the above-elbow and shoulder levels prosthetic joints and a more comprehensive system are needed.
Is a myoelectric prosthesis suitable for everyone?
Suitability depends on the condition of the residual limb, muscle signals, skin health and daily needs, and can only be determined through an assessment by the physician and the clinical team.
How is a suitable arm prosthesis determined?
The amputation level, the condition of the residual limb and skin, muscle signals, daily requirements and goals are assessed together. The fitting is planned individually in line with the specialist physician's prescription or medical report.
Application process
Physician's prescription / report
The process starts with a prescription or medical report issued by a specialist physician. No application is made without a prescription or report.
Assessment and measurement
The person's condition is assessed; measurements are taken for custom-made production and a service plan is prepared.
Production and fitting
The custom-made prosthesis or orthosis is produced; fit and alignment are adjusted during the fitting stage.
Application and user training
The device is applied; use, cleaning and care are explained.
Follow-up
Follow-up is provided for check-ups, maintenance and repair after the application.
Related informational content
Arm and Hand Prostheses: An Overview
ReadUpper Limb Prostheses by Amputation Level
ReadWhat Is Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR)?
ReadMyoelectrically Controlled Arm Prostheses
Read
Myoelectric Assessment for Upper Limb Prostheses
ReadApplications are carried out in line with a specialist physician's prescription or medical report, at our licensed center addresses. This content is for information only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.