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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Shoulder Disarticulation
- A shoulder disarticulation prosthetic attaches to an arm that has been amputated at the shoulder.
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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? Print and then complete the form below.
Meeting your Specialist
Your first appointment will include an initial assessment and also a chance to meet your specialist and ask questions.
If you have a prescription from your doctor, be sure to bring it with you.
Be prepared to discuss your medical history and also talk about your goals and expectations. We will also complete a physical assessment and try out a variety of orthotics to see what best meets your needs.
Please dress comfortably and bring shorts. We may need to measure, cast or use 3D-scanning to customize your fit and maximize comfort.
Funding/Costs
Direct Billing through AADL and WCB with a prescription from your doctor.
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