Our hands are an indispensable part of our lives. We do daily tasks, touch our loved ones, express our feelings... Our hands help us with all of these. So imagine, if someone loses a hand due to an accident, illness, or birth defect, or if its function is reduced, how big a challenge it is. However, with today's advanced medical science, we can successfully face such challenges. Today we are talking about an equally important and life-changing solution, which is a prosthetic hand, or `(Prosthetic Hand)`.
Simply put, what is this artificial arm?
A prosthetic hand, or ``Hand Prosthesis'', is a device used to replace a missing or disabled hand or part of a hand. It can range from a simple hook-like device to a high-tech ``Bionic'' hand that functions exactly like our own.
To help you on this journey, there is a professional who specializes in this field. We call him a ``Prosthetist.'' He is the one who helps you choose the prosthetic arm that best suits your lifestyle and needs. He is also the one who fits it to your body, teaches you how to use it, and makes adjustments to it as your needs change over time.
Who needs these?
You may be interested in a prosthetic hand if you have had part or all of your hand surgically removed, or if you are planning to have it removed. There are different types of prosthetic hands that are suitable for different types of surgeries. For example:
- When part of a finger or thumb is removed
- When part of the palm of the hand is removed (Partial hand/Transmetacarpal)
- Wrist disarticulation is when the entire hand is removed from the wrist joint.
- When the hand is removed along with part of the arm below the wrist (Transradial)
Also, children born with congenital hand differences can benefit greatly from a prosthetic hand. Children who are introduced to such a device at an early age can grow and develop with it. For example, this is very important for children with conditions such as ``Symbrachydactyly`` (the complete or partial absence of fingers).
What are the main types of prosthetic hands?
Prosthetic hands work differently and offer varying levels of functionality. Some look exactly like a real hand, while others are designed to make everyday tasks easier than they look. Let's take a look at the main types.
| Type of prosthetic hand | Description |
|---|---|
| Passive Prosthesis | These cannot move on their own. But they can be used as a stabilizer or to lift something. Since they are less technologically advanced, they can be made of silicone and painted to match your other hand, giving it a very realistic look. This is usually the type that is given first and is recommended for small babies. |
| Body-Powered Prosthesis | This is a mechanical device that works like a pulley system. You can open and close parts of it, such as the fingers, by moving the muscles in your remaining arm, shoulder, or chest and pulling a cable. These are often strong and made to withstand everyday work. They are very useful for those who work outdoors because they are resistant to water and dirt. |
| Activity-Specific Prosthesis | Some special tasks require special equipment. Imagine you need to do your job, play a sport, or play a musical instrument. In such cases, you can get a prosthetic hand that is specially designed for that task. This can be an extra hand in your collection. |
| Myoelectric Hand (Myoelectric Prosthesis) | This is the most advanced type available. This electronic hand works by detecting electrical impulses generated when your muscles contract. Electrodes on your skin pick up these signals and give commands to open and close your hand. This does not require as much effort as a hand that is powered by your body. Because these fingers can move independently, you can grip things in different ways (grip patterns). |
How does the process of getting a prosthetic arm work?
This is not something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and good training. Your medical team will work very closely with you on this journey.
1. Consultation and Assessment: First, you will have a discussion with your doctor and prosthetist. They will discuss your lifestyle, what you hope to do, and decide what type of prosthetic arm is best for you.
2. Measurements and Fitting: Next, we will carefully measure the remaining part of your hand and your other hand (if you have one). You may even need to take a cast or a 3D scan.
3. Basic Training: Once your prosthetic arm is made, you will be given basic training on how to use it, how to remove and put it on, how to clean it, and how to charge it if it is electronic.
4. Physical and Occupational Therapy: This is where the real training begins. A physical therapist and an occupational therapist work together to teach you how to use your hand to perform your daily tasks. Exercises are performed to strengthen the muscles needed.
5. Mental Healthcare: While you are adjusting to this change physically, you are also going through a big change mentally. This is not an easy thing to do. Therefore, it is very important to seek the help of psychiatrists or counselors to support you mentally during this journey.
This entire process can take about a year, so it's very important to practice with patience and dedication.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a prosthetic hand?
While there are advantages to using a prosthetic hand, there are also several things to consider.
Main advantages:
- Reduced pressure on the other hand and body: When you do everything with one hand without a prosthetic arm, there is a lot of pressure on the other hand, shoulder, and back. This can lead to pain and repetitive strain injuries in that area over time. Using a prosthetic arm balances the weight and pressure on the body.
- Improved functionality: Many daily tasks can be easily performed independently.
- Correcting Posture: When working with one hand on the side, the back can become strained and posture can change. A prosthetic arm can help control this.
- Increased mental strength and self-confidence: Being able to do your own work and the strength you gain to face society is priceless.
Things to be aware of (Potential Risks):
- Skin problems: If not fitted properly, skin irritation and chafing can occur.
- Sweating: It is normal for the area where the prosthesis is worn to sweat, so it should be kept clean at all times.
- Muscle fatigue: Muscles may feel tired at first, especially when using the hands, which are powered by the body.
- Mechanical faults: Because these are machines, they may break down and need to be repaired at times.
Many of these risks can be avoided with proper fitting, good training, and maintenance. If you experience any discomfort, notify your doctor or prosthetist immediately.
Can you feel things with a prosthetic hand?
This is a question that many people ask. With current technology, an artificial hand cannot feel touch. That is, it cannot feel things like heat, cold, or the softness of something. However, research is ongoing to create ``bionic`` hands that can feel touch. We may see that technology in the future.
Take-Home Message
- A prosthetic arm is a valuable opportunity for someone who has lost an arm to lead an active life again.
- There are many types of prosthetic hands that can suit your needs and lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about this.
- This is not something you can get used to overnight. It takes time, patience, and good training. Trust your medical team.
- It's important to stay mentally strong as well as physically fit. Don't hesitate to seek the help of a mental health professional if needed.
- If used correctly, a prosthetic arm can help you live a balanced, healthy life while preventing damage to other parts of your body.
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