A new hope for life: Let's talk about a prosthetic arm

Losing a limb, either completely or partially, due to an accident, illness, or birth, can have a huge impact on a person's life. It is a huge challenge, both physically and mentally. However, with today's advanced medical technology, there are solutions that can help us successfully face this challenge. One such very important solution is a prosthetic arm. So, let's talk about this very simply and in a friendly way today.

What is a Prosthetic Arm?

Simply put, a prosthetic hand is a device that is made to replace your natural hand. It is also called an upper limb prosthesis . Depending on the part you have lost, it can replace any part of your hand, such as your fingers, palm, wrist , forearm, elbow, forearm, or shoulder.

Think about it, some prosthetic hands are as simple as a mannequin's hand in a clothing store. And some are as sophisticated as a robot hand in a movie. There are many types of prosthetic hands in between, at varying levels.

Who would need a prosthetic arm like this?

Typically, someone who has had a limb removed through surgery (amputation) or someone who was born with a congenital limb difference may be interested in a prosthetic limb. There are different types of prosthetic limbs that can be used depending on these circumstances. Below are some of the cases.

What types of prosthetic hands are there?

Prosthetic arms can be divided into several main types. Each of them has a different purpose and function. Depending on your needs, you can choose the type that suits you best.

1. Passive Arm Prosthesis

This does not work exactly like a human hand. However, it can be made to look very similar to a natural hand. Especially those made of silicone , they can be made to match your skin color, nails, and even the fine lines on your hand. The main purpose of this is to restore appearance. Many people use this type of hand when going to a party or social event.

2. Body-Powered Arm Prosthesis

This is a mechanical device. It works like a pulley system. A system of cables connects the prosthetic arm to a muscle elsewhere in your body (for example, a muscle in your shoulder). When you activate that muscle, the cables pull and a claw or other device on the prosthetic arm opens and closes.

This type is very suitable for repetitive tasks and manual labor. They are very strong and water resistant. Also, when you operate this arm, you feel some feedback through the cable system. So you can know if it is working without looking at the arm.

3. Activity-Specific Prosthetic Arm

If you need a prosthetic arm for a specific job, sport, or hobby, you can get one that is specifically designed for that task. For example, they are designed to be suitable for lifting weights, carpentry, cycling, or swimming. They can be swapped out and used as needed.

4. Myoelectric Arm Prosthesis

This is the high-tech, robotic arm we were talking about. `Myo` means muscle. It works by sending tiny electrical impulses when your muscles contract . Electrodes attached to your skin detect these signals and activate the motors in the prosthetic arm.

While this can be used to perform a wide range of everyday tasks, it is not practical for all tasks. It takes some time to get used to using it. Also, it is not very suitable for heavy tasks that require a lot of strength. However, it is very high-end in appearance and functionality. People who have mastered it have even relearned how to drive a car, type on a computer, and play the piano.

5. Hybrid Prosthetic Arm

This is a combination of the two types mentioned above. For example, the elbow can be made to be body-powered, and the palm and fingers can be made to be myoelectric. This allows you to get the benefits of both types together.

How does the process of getting a prosthetic arm work?

Getting a prosthetic arm and getting used to it is a big journey. It takes time, training, and a lot of patience. There is a healthcare team, including doctors and physical therapists, to help you on this journey. The process consists of several key steps.

1. Consultation and Assessment: First, your doctor and prosthetist will examine you. They will discuss your physical fitness, lifestyle, needs, and goals, and determine the type of prosthetic limb that is best suited for you.

2. Measurements and Fitting: This step usually takes place 3-6 weeks after the hand removal surgery. Here, the specialist takes very precise measurements of your residual limb. Sometimes a mold or even a 3D scan may be taken.

3. Basic Training: Once your prosthetic arm is made, you will be given basic training on how to use it, how to put it on and take it off, how to clean it, and how to maintain it.

4. Physical and Occupational Training: This is the most important part. A physical therapist and an occupational therapist will work together to train you to use your arm to perform everyday tasks. They will give you exercises to strengthen the necessary muscles.

5. Mental Health Care: While your body is recovering, your mind is also going through a lot of changes. Never underestimate this part. You can get a lot of help from psychiatrists, counselors, and peer support groups to stay mentally strong during this journey.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a prosthetic hand?

Whether or not to use a prosthetic arm is a personal decision. Some people find it easier to work in other ways (for example, using their other arm or leg). However, there are several health benefits to using a prosthetic arm.

Many of these risks can be avoided with proper fitting, good training, and proper maintenance .

How long does it take to get used to this?

The time it takes to complete this varies from person to person. It depends on many factors, including the type of prosthetic arm you use, how you train, and your goals. Your physical therapist will create a training schedule that is right for you. This training period can range from a few months to a year .

What is Target Muscle Reinnervation (TMR)?

This is a somewhat complex, but very important modern surgical technique. This is especially important for those who are hoping to use a myoelectric hand.

Simply put, during amputation, our major nerves are severed. Sometimes these severed nerve endings can cause long-term pain (neuromas) or "phantom limb sensations."

In TMR surgery, the surgeon reconnects the severed nerve to a nearby healthy muscle. This can help prevent the aforementioned pain. More importantly, the reconnected nerves can be used to provide the electrical signals needed to control the myoelectric hand. This makes controlling the prosthetic hand easier and more natural.

Prosthetic hand technology has advanced a lot in recent years. If you are diligent, you will be amazed at what you can do with these. Your healthcare team is always ready to help you on that journey. However, even with all these advances, we must also understand that a prosthetic hand is not the same as a natural hand. Your medical team knows the difficulty and pain of that journey. So, while working hard, don't forget to be gentle and kind to yourself.