Upper Extremity
Prosthetic care for above elbow, elbow disarticulation, below the elbow, wrist disarticulation, and partial hand/digit level amputations.
Upper Extremity
The Limb Center works with many patients who have upper extremity limb loss. We have successfully fit patients with above elbow, elbow disarticulation, below the elbow, wrist disarticulation, and partial hand/digit level amputations. The Limb Center cares for patients with bilateral upper limb amputations at all levels.
Prosthetic solutions may utilize:
- Body powered components which rely on the range of motion and strength of the user’s muscles. These are more durable and can be appropriate for specific tasks.
- Myoelectric components which operate through electric impulses from the user’s remaining muscles and programmed computer software. These can be more fragile and not immersible in water.
Below Elbow (BE) Prosthetics
A transradial (across or through the radius) or BE prosthesis requires:
- Socket — The part of the prosthesis that the residual limb goes into
- Suspension — The particular method of holding the prosthesis onto your limb
- Terminal Device (TD) — The attachment at the end of the prosthetic device which could be a hand, a hook, or other TD with specific function
Prosthesis Function
Patients with BE limb loss require a prosthesis to replace the anatomical wrist joint and hand. The prosthetic components must work in harmony so patients can gain functional use of the prosthetic forearm and terminal device.
There are many manufacturers of prosthetic upper limb components and numerous styles to select from. The prosthetist and you will discuss the most appropriate wrist and terminal device based on your functional level and the specific activities and tasks that you do throughout your day.
Partial Hand/Digit Prosthetics
Prosthesis Function
Individuals with the loss of part of their hand or absence of one or more digits, may require a specialized prosthesis. These devices allow patients to achieve grip and helps to improve hand balance. Partial hands are especially complex because they may involve one to five residual digits and/or a partial palm.
The structure of the residual hand and the remaining muscle control may require an innovative solution. Prosthetic devices can be mechanically controlled or myoelectrically controlled through programmed software. Some mechanical finger prostheses use body power from the remaining digits to bend the fingers and grip an item. Others have a ratchet design where the prosthetic fingers are positioned by the user’s other hand to grasp a specific object. There are a number of different options including the X-fingers, iDigits, or Griplock fingers. These devices are all engineered to restore function to the patient so they can get back to work or hobbies that they enjoy.
Technology
The Limb Center actively stays up-to-date with the latest state-of-the-art technology and techniques from around the globe, ensuring that our patients always have access to the most advanced solutions.
Our L.I.M.B. Care Approach
Each step of your recovery is backed by our distinct L.I.M.B. Care approach.
Lifelong
Your long-term health and well-being is extremely important to us. You deserve a clinician who will listen to you and understand your needs. We want you to know there is a provider available For You. For Life.
Individualized
You are unique, and no two patients are the same. We have built an environment designed to help you thrive and live your best life. Our patients continue to amaze us each, and every day. Join us!
Meaningful
You being able to rely on your prosthesis to walk, and for it to function as it should, is essential to you. We work closely with you to perfect the socket fit based on your limb, your movement abilities, and your personal goals.
Boundless
You should feel confident in your ability to live your day to day life. Whether at a desk, working manual labor, playing sports, or traveling, we are here to ensure that your prosthesis is not limiting you.