What is a prosthetic device?

A prosthesis is a device designed to replace a missing part of the body or to make a part of the body work better. Diseased or missing eyes, arms, hands, legs, or joints are commonly replaced by prosthetic devices. False teeth are known as dental prostheses.

Prosthetic Hand

Transradial Prosthesis

An artificial arm that attaches below the elbow.

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Prosthetic Arm

Transhumeral Prosthesis

An artificial arm that connects between the shoulder and elbow.

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Prosthetic Foot

Transtibial Prosthesis

A transtibial prosthesis is an artificial leg attaching below the knee.

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Prosthetic Leg

Transfemoral Prosthesis

An artificial leg replacement attaching between the hip and knee.

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Prosthesis in Simple Terms

Prosthetic devices, or prostheses, are artificial components designed to replace missing body parts, enhancing both functionality and appearance for individuals who have experienced limb loss. These devices range from external prostheses, which can be worn and removed, to internal prostheses implanted surgically.

What is a Prosthesis?

A prosthesis is a custom-designed, artificial device created to replace a missing part of the body, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. While the most common prostheses are for arms and legs, they can also include devices for missing eyes, ear lobes, fingers, or toes. Prosthetic technology has come a long way, transitioning from simple wooden limbs to advanced solutions crafted from materials like fiberglass, metal, and sophisticated plastics.

Full Arm Prosthesis
BK Below Knee Prosthesis

What types of prosthetic devices are available?

Some are worn on the outside of the body and can be put on and taken off (external prostheses), while others (internal prostheses) are inserted during a specific surgical process. The most common prosthetic devices are....

Hand / Finger Amputation

With multiple types of arm and hand amputations, each type can impact the type of prosthetic device or prosthetic technology you ultimately choose.

Below Knee (BK) Prosthesis

A below knee (BK) or transtibial (TT) prosthesis is custom made for a person who has had a BK or TT amputation.

Prosthetic Arms

Prosthetic arms are artificial limbs designed to replace missing or amputated arms.

TYPES OF PROSTHETIC LIMBS

Prosthetic devices are used to replace missing extremities, such as arms , hands, fingers, legs, feet and even toes.

  • Above knee (transfemoral) prosthesis
  • Below knee (transtibial) prosthesis
  • Partial foot & symes prosthesis
  • Above elbow (transhumeral) prosthesis
  • Below elbow (transradial) prosthesis
  • Microprocessor controlled joints
  • Water/swimming leg prosthesis
  • Athletic/High Activity leg prosthesis
There are several levels of lower limb amputation, including partial foot, ankle disarticulation, transtibial (below the knee), knee disarticulation, transfemoral (above the knee), and hip disarticulation. The most common are transtibial (mid-calf) and transfemoral (mid-thigh). The basic components of these lower limb prostheses are the foot-ankle assembly, shank, socket, and suspension system.

Get a Prosthetic Assessment

What should be considered when choosing a prosthesis?

  • The location and level of the amputation.
  • The condition of the remaining limb.
  • Your activity level, particularly for a prosthetic leg or foot.
  • Your specific goals and needs.
WHO Amputee Assessment Framework

Talk with your Medical Professional about an assessment for Prosthetic Device.

Evolution of Prosthetic Devices

  • Historical Beginnings: Early prosthetic devices were rudimentary, often made from wood and metal, providing limited functionality.
  • Modern Innovations: Today’s prosthetics are tailored to fit the individual’s residual limb with precision, offering comfort and improved mobility. Advanced models may incorporate functional joints powered by muscle contractions or controlled by microprocessors. Some even utilize electrical currents generated by muscle movements for enhanced motion.

Types of Prosthetic Devices

  1. Limb Prostheses:
    • Arm or leg prostheses are commonly equipped with joints for natural movement.
  2. Specialized Prostheses:
    • Breast prostheses are often used post-mastectomy, either as external solutions or surgically implanted devices.

Prosthetic Legs
Prosthetic Arms
Real Looking Prosthetic Arms
Automated Robotic Prosthetic Hands