Custom  prosthetics to keep you going

Upper Body Prosthetics

There are 6 options for people who have an upper body limb difference or limb loss.

These include:

  • Passive prosthesis
    These provide no movement and are created to look like an arm, finger, or hand. Although they provide no active movement, they provide stability and can passively assist with bi-manual tasks. These types of prostheses are very lightweight and can be customized with a fun design or a cosmetic silicone glove.
  • Body-powered prosthesis
    By moving the residual limb or the muscles in the upper body these types of prostheses will open and close. Body-powered prosthetics are lightweight and are very functional for lifting, carrying, and holding items. Body-powered prosthetics are appropriate for both heavy-duty and light-duty tasks.
  • Myoelectic prosthesis
    Myoelectric prostheses use an external power source and operate by detecting muscle signals. By contracting muscles in the residual limb, the prosthesis will respond, and the user will be able to control their prosthesis.
  • Hybrid prosthesis
    These types of prostheses utilize both body-powered and myoelectric systems. These can be used for above-elbow amputees depending on the goals and expectations of the individual.
  • Activity-specific prosthesis
    These are devices that are made for a specific activity such as biking, golfing, weightlifting, and fishing, among many other activities.
  • No prosthesis

More information about these types of prosthetics and the liner, suspension and socket can be found on our Prosthetics Information page. For care instructions check out our care manual.

Types of Upper Body Prosthetics

Fingers

  • The most common upper body prostheses. Around 90 percent of upper body prosthetics are finger prosthetics replacing one or more fingers on a hand.
Finger Orthotics

Partial Hand

  • These types of prosthetics replace part of the hand when fingers or parts of the palm are missing. Prosthesis for these come in multiple types such as passive, body-powered, externally powered, and hybrid.
Partial Hand Prosthetics

Wrist Disarticulation

  • This prosthetic is a whole-hand replacement. These types of prostheses are attached with a suspension, liner and socket that are custom fit to your limb.
Wrist Disarticulation

Transradial

  • Transradial is an amputation that goes across the two long bones in the forearm. This means that the elbow is still intact which a prosthesis in this location will take advantage of. Also, the prostheses for this come in cosmetic, body-powered or externally powered.
Transradial Prosthetic

Elbow Disarticulation

  • Elbow disarticulation is when the arm has been amputated at the elbow. Prostheses for this type of amputation will be similar to the Transradial but include an elbow joint depending on the type of prosthetic.
  • These come in cosmetic, body-powered and externally powered variations.
  • Also, there is a suspension, liner and socket that can be custom fit.

Transhumeral

  • The humeral is the bone in the upper arm that goes from the shoulder to the elbow. A transhumeral prosthetic attaches to an arm that has been amputated above the elbow and below the shoulder, across the humeral bone.
  • The prosthetic has a socket, interface and suspension that can be modified to fit your arm.
  • Also, there are passive, body-powered and externally powered variations of this prosthetic.
Transhumeral Prosthetic

Shoulder Disarticulation

  • A shoulder disarticulation prosthetic attaches to an arm that has been amputated at the shoulder.

Our Most Popular Brands

Breg
Össur Life Without Limitations
Med Spec
Corflex
Townsend A Thuasne Company
DJO Global
Springloaded

We have the perfect fit for you.

Book an Appointment

WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR FIRST VISIT

Your First Visit

Please plan to come 10-15 minutes before your appointment time to complete necessary forms. Want to save time as well? Print and complete the form below.

New Patient Form

Meeting your Specialist

We are here to make this process as easy and also as comfortable as possible.

Your initial assessment allows for a thorough evaluation of your needs. It also allows time for discussion, questions and reviewing expectations.

For your exam and to allow for the possibility of taking a cast, please wear loose fitting comfortable clothes, shorts or short sleeves as appropriate.

After your initial assessment, a follow-up appointment will be arranged to customize your prosthesis for optimal comfort and function.

We are always available if you have any questions.

Funding/Costs

There are a couple of options to help you cover the cost of your every day prosthesis, such as Alberta Aids to Daily Living program and War Amps.

Additional Resources

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