Below-elbow prosthesis
An upper limb prosthesis in which the person's own elbow joint is preserved, consisting of a forearm socket, wrist unit and terminal device.
What is a below-elbow prosthesis?
A below-elbow prosthesis, clinically called a transradial prosthesis, is an upper limb prosthesis used when the amputation has been performed below the elbow joint, at forearm level. Since the person's own elbow joint is preserved at this level, the ability to bend and straighten the elbow naturally remains; the prosthesis is planned to take over the function of the hand and wrist.
A below-elbow prosthesis consists of a forearm socket that encloses the residual limb, a wrist unit that provides rotation and positioning of the wrist, and a terminal device (hand or hook) that holds objects. Preservation of one's own elbow is an important factor that makes control and learning relatively easier.
Arm amputation levels
The level at which the amputation is performed determines which natural joints are preserved and which components the prosthesis requires. The diagrams compare four different levels; they do not indicate measurements.
Below-elbow
The elbow joint is preserved; the hand and part of the forearm are missing. The prosthesis is planned with a socket adapted to the remaining forearm, a wrist unit and a prosthetic hand or hook.
Above-elbow
The amputation is at upper arm level; the natural elbow, forearm and hand are missing. In addition to an upper arm socket, the prosthetic system includes a prosthetic elbow, wrist unit and hand or hook.
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Shoulder disarticulation
The arm is separated at the level of the shoulder joint; the upper arm, elbow, forearm and hand are missing. The prosthesis is planned with a custom-made socket adapted to the shoulder area and components that take over the functions of the arm.
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Wrist amputation
In wrist disarticulation, the hand is separated at the wrist joint; the forearm and natural elbow are preserved. The prosthetic hand and connecting components are selected according to the length of the preserved forearm and the person's needs.
Main components
The components are planned together as a whole; selection and adjustment are carried out under the guidance of the physician and clinical team.
Forearm socket
The custom-made part that grips the residual limb and carries the prosthesis. In myoelectric use, it also ensures the electrodes' contact with the skin.
Wrist unit
Adjusts the grasping angle by allowing the terminal device to rotate and be positioned at a suitable angle.
Terminal device (hand / hook)
The end component that holds and grasps objects; it can be an electronic hand, a mechanical hand or a hook.
Control system
The method that determines how the terminal device is operated; it can be myoelectric, body-powered or passive.
Control methods
A below-elbow prosthesis can be used with different control methods. Which one is suitable is determined by the specialist team according to muscle signals, daily needs and the person's goals.
Myoelectric (electronic) hand
An approach in which electrodes on the residual limb detect muscle signals to control the opening and closing of the hand and different grip modes.
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Body-powered (mechanical)
A durable and simple mechanical approach in which shoulder and trunk movements are transferred to the terminal device through a cable mechanism.
Passive and cosmetic
An approach that prioritizes a natural appearance and basic supporting function and does not include a moving motor.
Learn moreUse and learning
Generating muscle signals
In myoelectric use, the person learning to generate signals by consciously contracting the appropriate muscles is the basis of effective use.
Two-handed tasks
Together with the preserved opposite hand, the prosthesis supports being able to perform two-handed daily tasks again.
Skin and socket health
Monitoring the skin of the residual limb and regularly assessing socket fit are important for comfort and safety.
The fitting process
Physician's Prescription / Medical Report
Fitting begins with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
Assessment and Measurement
The condition of the residual limb and muscle signals are assessed; the socket and control method are planned.
Fitting Trial and Adjustment
The socket, wrist and terminal device are fitted; settings are adjusted for the individual.
Training and Follow-up
Control and use training is provided; regular check-ups and modifications are provided.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a below-elbow and an above-elbow prosthesis?
At the below-elbow level, the person's own elbow joint is preserved and no separate prosthetic elbow joint is used. At the above-elbow level, since there is no natural elbow, a prosthetic elbow joint is added to the system.
Is a myoelectric hand suitable for everyone?
Suitability depends on the condition of the residual limb, muscle signals, skin health and daily needs, and is determined by the assessment of the physician and the clinical team.
How long does it take to learn to use the prosthesis?
Learning time varies from person to person. Muscle signal generation and control skills develop through structured training and regular practice after the fitting trial.
This content is for informational purposes; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Fittings are carried out at our licensed center addresses in line with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
