Pediatric arm prosthesis
Pediatric upper limb prostheses at different levels, from the finger to the shoulder, that support a child's grasping, play and daily skills and are adapted to the growing body.
What is a pediatric arm prosthesis?
A pediatric arm prosthesis is an upper limb prosthesis that supports children with a limb difference in the fingers, hand, forearm, elbow or shoulder region. It is available in various types suited to different ages and activities; these range from lightweight hands that mainly provide appearance and balance to systems that work with muscle signals and support functions such as grasping.
The suitable type is chosen according to the child's age, development, the condition of the remaining limb and daily needs. The aim of pediatric prostheses is not only to replace the missing limb but also to support two-handed skills such as grasping, dressing, play and school activities, as well as social participation.
The developmental importance of early fitting
Starting a prosthetic fitting at an appropriate stage of development can make it easier for the child to accept the prosthesis as a natural part of their body. Using both hands together is important for two-handed skills such as grasping objects, dressing and play.
Balanced support from both sides can help the child develop as natural a posture and movement as possible, helping to reduce compensatory movements that overload one side of the body. The timing and type of fitting vary for each child and require a specialist assessment.
Basic components
The components are planned according to the child's age, the condition of the remaining limb and daily needs.
Pediatric socket and liner
The part that fits the remaining limb individually, is lightweight and skin-friendly, and is assessed regularly to keep up with the growing body.
Terminal device (hand / end piece)
The end component that enables grasping; it may be a passive hand, a functional end piece or an electronic hand.
Control method
The approach that determines how the terminal device is operated; it may be cosmetic, body-powered or myoelectric.
Type options
Which type is suitable is determined by the specialist team according to the child's age, development and daily needs.
Cosmetic (passive)
Lightweight solutions without a motor that provide support for daily balance and a natural appearance.
Body-powered (mechanical)
A durable mechanical approach that draws power from body movements through a harness and cable system.
Myoelectric (electronic)
An approach in which the movement of an electric hand is driven by impulses taken from muscle signals in the remaining limb.
Learn moreActivity-specific end pieces
Options that can be used with special end pieces designed for particular games, sports or daily tasks.
The fitting process
Physician's Prescription / Medical Report
The fitting begins with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
Assessment and Measurement
The child's development, the condition of the remaining limb and daily needs are assessed; the suitable type is planned.
Trial and Fit
A custom-made socket and terminal device are fitted; settings are adjusted to the child.
Training and Follow-up
Training on use is given; regular follow-up is carried out for check-ups and adaptations related to growth.
Frequently asked questions
When can a myoelectric hand be fitted in children?
The timing of the fitting and the type vary for each child. Suitability is determined by the physician and the clinical team, taking into account the child's age, development, the condition of the remaining limb and muscle signals.
Will a prosthesis get in the way of the child's play and school activities?
Pediatric arm prostheses are planned to be lightweight and easy to use, with the aim of supporting daily skills such as grasping, play and school activities.
How often is an arm prosthesis renewed?
The socket fit may change due to growth. How often renewal and adjustment are needed varies according to the child's rate of growth and is determined through regular check-ups.
This content is for information purposes; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Fittings are carried out at our licensed center locations in line with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
