Regain functionality in an amputated arm with the use of an arm prosthetic.
Most arm amputations occur either just below or just above the elbow. Following amputation, prosthetic arms allow amputees to grip and manipulate objects as they move towards independence. Many advances have been made in prosthetic arms in recent years, and today, there are even electric prostheses that can move based on signals provided by the muscles.
There are three main types of prosthetic arms we fit patients with in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, including:
- Electrically powered—These prosthetic arms resemble a real arm and are controlled through electrical impulses from muscles in the residual arm. Most of these prostheses boast basic grip functionality, but some have fully controllable fingers.
- Body powered—These prosthetic arms feature a cable system that lets the wearer grasp different objects, lock the elbow, and flex.
- Hybrid—These prosthetic arms combine electrical and body-powered components. In most cases, these prostheses are used for above-the-elbow amputations.
Following amputation, we wait for the arm to fully heal before moving forward with the fitting process. Once this occurs, we will have an in-depth, ongoing conversation about the right prosthetic arm option for your needs and lifestyle and introduce you to several options so you can find the right one.
Wearing a prosthetic arm is an adjustment, but our goal at Tierney Orthotics and Prosthetics is to make sure you are successful. For a referral to our location, ask your treating physician. We look forward to hearing from you and to getting started with the fitting process!