What to Consider When Choosing a Prosthetic Arm
Today, advances in prosthetic technologies offer a wide variety of options for individuals experiencing upper limb loss. Prosthetic arms and hands not only make daily life easier but also help individuals integrate into their social lives. However, choosing the right prosthesis should be made by considering the individual's lifestyle, expectations, and needs.
1. Lifestyle and Daily Needs
Every individual's daily activities are different. A prosthetic hand with simple functions may be sufficient for someone who does housework, writes, or uses a computer. However, those with a profession that requires extensive manual dexterity may benefit from prosthetic arm models with more advanced functions. It is particularly recommended that individuals working in industrial, healthcare, or manual labor sectors choose models with high functional mobility.
2. Functional Features
Myoelectric prosthetic arms are particularly prominent in modern prosthetic technologies. These prosthetics detect electrical signals from the user's muscles, enabling more natural and precise movement. For example, everyday functions such as grasping an object, holding a pen to write, or controlling small parts can be performed much more easily with a myoelectric prosthetic hand.
However, more economical mechanical prosthetic arms are also available that cater to basic needs. In these models, movements are generally achieved through shoulder and body movements. While functionally simpler, they can be sufficient for many users.
3. Aesthetic Appearance
When choosing a prosthetic arm, not only function but also aesthetics are crucial. Many users desire a more natural appearance in their social lives. Thanks to the prosthetic coatings developed today, appearances that closely resemble real human skin can be achieved. Silicone coatings, in particular, offer a natural hand or arm appearance with customizable color and texture options. This boosts the self-confidence of prosthesis users.
4. Preferences Based on Area of Use
Another factor to consider when choosing a prosthesis is the intended use. Individuals involved in sports should choose durable and flexible prosthetic arms. For example, specialized sports prosthetics have been developed for activities such as swimming or running. Lighter, easier-to-use models are recommended for users who need to perform simple tasks in their daily lives.
Some users may also have two different prosthetic hand models. One is a lightweight and aesthetically pleasing model for daily use, while the other is a durable model for special activities like work or sports.
5. Psychological and Social Impact
Choosing the right prosthetic arm benefits the individual not only physically but also psychologically. As people can independently perform daily tasks with a prosthesis, their self-confidence increases and they can more easily adapt to social life. Therefore, the individual's psychological state and social expectations should always be considered when selecting a prosthesis.
6. Selection Based on Expert Opinion
Every individual's needs are different. Therefore, when choosing a prosthesis, it is essential to consult with specialist physicians, physiotherapists, and prosthetic technicians rather than making a decision alone. Taking accurate measurements, selecting the appropriate materials, and determining the model that best suits the individual's lifestyle require professional support.
A wide range of prosthetic arm and hand technologies are available today. When the right choice is made, a prosthesis is not just an assistive device; it's also a solution that enhances an individual's quality of life. Whether aesthetics or functionality are your priority, the right model allows users to achieve independence in both their professional and social lives.
At Canerdem Orthopedics, we aim to offer the most appropriate prosthetic solutions to suit each individual's needs. Our professional team is here to help you with prosthetic arm and hand options that meet both your functional and aesthetic expectations.