Our Process

  • Consult
    Consult

    Finding the right solution begins with a thorough consultation and assessment. We take a cast or scan of the residual limb for a prosthesis, or the body part that needs support or correction for an orthosis.

  • Design
    Design

    Using the cast or scan, we create a physical plaster of paris mould and/or generate a CAD mould which is then carefully re-worked to create a custom design for a prosthesis or orthotic.

  • Manufacture
    Manufacture

    The prosthesis or orthotic is produced for trial (e.g. a test socket) or permanent use using state-of-the-art equipment, components and lightweight, flexible, skin-friendly materials.

  • Fitting
    Fitting

    Fit, comfort and function are vital. Typically more than one fitting is required to custom fit a prosthesis or orthosis, and it is standard practice for a patient to trial a prosthesis before the definitive prosthesis/orthosis is completed.

  • Ongoing Care
    Ongoing Care

    Prosthetic and orthotic devices need to be serviced to maintain effective function, and adjustments carried out to accommodate physical changes and optimise fit.

Upper Limb Prosthetics

Personalised upper limb prostheses designed around your goals

Upper limb prosthetics can help people living with limb loss achieve greater independence and participate in everyday, vocational, recreational and sporting activities.

We provide individualised upper limb prosthetic solutions for different levels of upper limb amputation, including transradial (below-elbow) and transhumeral (above-elbow) amputation.

The most appropriate prosthesis depends on your individual circumstances, including your amputation level, residual limb function, muscle activity, lifestyle, work requirements, recreational interests, comfort, cosmetic preferences and ability to operate the prosthesis.

Our approach is focused on finding the right balance between function, comfort, appearance and reliability, supported by appropriate prosthetic training and rehabilitation.

Evidence does not show that one upper limb prosthetic system is universally better than another. Body-powered and myoelectric systems each have advantages and limitations, so prosthetic selection should be based on individual functional goals and preferences.

Our Upper Limb Prosthetic Solutions

Body-Powered Prostheses

Body-powered prostheses use a harness and cable system to control a terminal device, such as a prosthetic hook or hand.

Movement of the shoulder and upper body operates the cable, which can provide direct mechanical control of the terminal device.

Potential advantages include:

  • Robust and mechanically reliable operation
  • Direct mechanical control and feedback
  • Relatively straightforward maintenance
  • Suitable for a range of work and functional activities
  • No battery required for operation of the terminal device

Body-powered prostheses can be particularly useful where durability, reliability and direct control are important. Research comparing body-powered and myoelectric systems has identified potential advantages of body-powered devices in areas such as durability, maintenance, training requirements and feedback, although outcomes vary between individuals.

Myoelectric Prostheses – Robotic arms

Myoelectric, or externally powered, prostheses use electrical signals generated by residual muscles to control one or more prosthetic components.

Electrodes positioned within the prosthetic socket detect muscle activity. These signals are processed by the prosthesis to control functions such as opening and closing a hand or hook.

Myoelectric systems can eliminate or reduce the need for a traditional harness and may provide a more natural-looking appearance.

They may be appropriate for people who prioritise:

  • Cosmetic appearance
  • Electrically powered hand or terminal-device control
  • Reduced reliance on a traditional harness
  • Specific work or lifestyle requirements
  • Functional grasp and release for selected activities

Successful use requires appropriate assessment, fitting and training. The reliability of myoelectric control can be affected by factors such as electrode contact, residual muscle activity, socket fit and the complexity of the control system.

Although myoelectric prostheses can provide important functional and cosmetic benefits for some users, current evidence does not demonstrate a universal functional advantage over body-powered prostheses. Prescription should therefore be based on individual goals, preferences and clinical assessment

Hybrid Prosthesis

Hybrid prostheses combine body-powered and externally powered components.

They are commonly considered for people with transhumeral or higher-level upper limb amputation where both elbow and terminal-device function need to be addressed.

For example, a hybrid system may use a body-powered mechanism to control an elbow component while an externally powered system controls the terminal device.

Hybrid prostheses can provide an option when a person requires multiple forms of control within the same prosthetic system.

Prescription is highly individual and depends on residual limb length, muscle function, available range of motion, functional goals and the activities the person wants to perform.

Cosmetic Prostheses

Cosmetic prostheses are designed primarily to restore the appearance and overall shape of the missing limb rather than provide advanced active function.

They can be a lightweight option for people who prioritise:

  • Appearance
  • Symmetry
  • Lightweight construction
  • Comfort
  • Simple day-to-day use

Depending on the design, some cosmetic prostheses may incorporate passive or mechanically positioned fingers that can assist with selected activities.

We provide appropriate cosmetic solutions based on individual requirements. Where applicable, a standard cosmetic glove may be selected to provide a suitable skin-tone appearance.

Custom silicone cosmetic restoration is not our primary area of specialisation.

Sport, Recreation & Activity-Specific Prostheses

A prosthesis designed for everyday activities is not necessarily the best solution for every recreational or sporting activity.

Some people benefit from activity-specific terminal devices or interchangeable prosthetic components designed around a particular task.

Sport and recreation prostheses may be considered for activities such as:

  • Cycling
  • Gym and strength training
  • Golf
  • Swimming and water-based activities
  • Fishing
  • Racquet sports
  • Outdoor recreation
  • Other specialised hobbies and activities

Where appropriate, we can consider specialised terminal devices designed to improve participation in specific activities.

The aim is not simply to reproduce the appearance of a natural hand, but to provide the most effective solution for the activity and the individual’s goals.

Choosing the Right Upper Limb Prosthesis

There is no single prosthetic design that is right for everyone.

A comprehensive assessment considers factors such as:

Level of amputation

Prosthetic requirements differ between transradial, transhumeral and higher-level amputations.

Residual limb function

Residual limb length, joint movement, muscle strength and available muscle signals can influence the prosthetic options available.

Functional goals

Your prosthesis should be selected around the activities that matter to you — including personal care, household activities, work, education, driving, recreation and sport.

Comfort and socket fit

A comfortable, well-fitting socket is fundamental to successful prosthetic use. Ongoing assessment and adjustments may be required as the residual limb changes.

Control method

Body-powered, myoelectric, hybrid and passive systems each have different control requirements and characteristics.

Appearance

Cosmetic priorities vary considerably between individuals. Appearance can be an important consideration alongside function and comfort.

Rehabilitation and training

Training is an important part of learning to use an upper limb prosthesis effectively. Occupational therapists and other rehabilitation professionals can assist with functional training and integration of the prosthesis into daily activities.

Lifestyle and environment

The environments in which the prosthesis will be used — including workplace, home, outdoor and recreational environments — should be considered during prescription.Upper Limb Prosthetic Rehabilitation

A prosthesis is only one part of the rehabilitation process.

Successful prosthetic rehabilitation may involve a multidisciplinary team including a prosthetist, occupational therapist, rehabilitation physician and other healthcare professionals as required.

Training can address:

  • Donning and doffing the prosthesis
  • Socket and skin care
  • Prosthetic control
  • Functional and occupational tasks
  • Activities of daily living
  • Work-related activities
  • Recreational activities
  • Myoelectric signal training where applicable
  • Prosthetic maintenance
  • Safe and effective use of the device.

Regular review is important because prosthetic requirements can change over time. Socket fit, component selection, activity requirements and functional goals may all need to be reassessed.

What to Expect When Being Fitted for an Upper Limb Prosthesis

Your prosthetic journey will be tailored to your individual circumstances.

Assessment may include:

  1. Understanding your goals
    We discuss the activities you want your prosthesis to help you perform.
  2. Assessing your residual limb and movement
    We assess limb length, range of motion, muscle function, skin condition and other factors relevant to prosthetic fitting.
  3. Discussing prosthetic options
    Different control systems, terminal devices, suspension methods and components may be considered.
  4. Trialling appropriate components
    Where possible, components can be evaluated against your specific functional requirements.
  5. Fabricating and fitting the prosthesis
    The socket and components are fitted and adjusted to optimise comfort and function.
  6. Training and rehabilitation
    You learn how to operate and incorporate the prosthesis into everyday activities.
  7. Review and adjustment
    Follow-up allows the prosthesis to be fine-tuned as your experience, residual limb and functional requirements change.
Prosthetics Funding

Prosthetics Funding

In a nutshell, the following categories apply to prosthetic funding:
  • If you lost your limb due to disease or illness, you will most likely be covered by the Queensland Government’s Artificial Limb Service (QALS) or the NDIS if you are under the age of 65.
  • If you lost your limb in an accident at home or during recreation, and there is no compensating body, then the public health system or the National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIIS) will cover the cost of the prosthetic limb/s. Note: The NIIS is still in development and in the meantime, funding will be provided by the NDIS.
  • If your amputation was due to trauma, such as a motor vehicle or workplace accident, and compensation is identified as a possibility, the insuring organisation, e.g. National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIISQ) or WorkCover, will most likely fund your prosthesis and medical care as part of your rehabilitation.
  • Veterans who either lost their limb as a result of injuries received while serving in the Australian Army, Navy or Airforce, or who have a Gold Card, will have their prosthesis paid for by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) or the Defence Force.
  • Most Private Health Insurance companies do not allocate funding for prosthetics, however it is worth checking with your insurer if you are uncertain, as they may cover partial costs.

Talk to your Prosthetist for more information.

 

Orthotics Funding

Orthotics Funding

In Queensland the following options are available for orthotics funding:
  • Queensland Health’s Medical Aid Subsidy Scheme (MASS) – this is a subsidy scheme for orthotics and therefore the patient is required to pay any shortfall.
  • Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – DVA pay for orthotics for eligible serving and former Australian Defence Force members. An out-of-pocket contribution may be applicable, depending on the type of device required.
  • Private Health – Most private health insurance companies do not allocate funding for orthotics, however it is worth checking with your insurer if you are uncertain, as they may cover partial costs.
  • NDIS – If you are under 65, have a permanent disability and require support for the rest of your life, the NDIS may cover the cost of orthotics.
  • National Injury Insurance Scheme (NIISQ)   or WorkCover – If your injury was due to trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident or workplace accident, and compensation is identified as a possibility, the insuring organisation (NIISQ or WorkCover) will most likely fund your orthoses and medical care as part of your rehabilitation.

Talk to your Orthotist for more information.

NDIS
The Australian Government's National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support to people with disability, their families and carers. Under the NDIS, all Australians under the age of 65 who have a disability that is likely to be permanent and significant are provided with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to live an ordinary life. This includes prosthetics and, in some cases, orthotics.
These are the steps involved in becoming an NDIS participant and getting funding approved for a prosthesis:
  • 1
    Contact NDIS

    and request a NDIS registration form. Once you have received the form, complete it and return it to the NDIS.

  • 2
    Arrange your planning meeting

    Once your registration form has been submitted, the NDIS will contact you to arrange a planning meeting with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC).

  • 3
    Meet with your prosthetist

    IMPORTANT: Before your meeting with the NDIS' Local Area Coordinator, make sure you meet with your prosthetist. Your prosthetist will advise you of the funding required. The goals you set for yourself in your NDIS plan will determine the type of prosthesis NDIS may fund.

  • 4
    Meet with your Local Area Coordinator

    You then meet with your NDIS Local Area Coordinator and develop a proposed plan requesting the funding and correct allocation required for the life of your plan (usually 12-months).

  • 5
    Visit your prosthetist for a functional assessment

    Once you received a copy of your plan from NDIS, visit your Prosthetist for a functional assessment and quote that he will submit for approval to NDIS. At this point, there will be funding available for consumables like liners/socks to see you through until the approval comes through.

  • 6
    NDIS approval

    Once NDIS approval is received, you can commence the process of having a prosthesis designed, manufactured and fitted.

Visit the NDIS website

Links

Important Links

Here are some links to associations, organisations which support people requiring prosthetics and orthotics.
Funding Bodies

Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics is a registered member of the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA), NDIS, Queensland Artificial Limb Service (QALS) and Department of Veterans Affairs.

 

 

Upper Limb Prosthetics FAQs

Could an Upper Limb Prosthesis Help You?

At Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics, we take an individualised approach to upper limb prosthetic care, helping people with limb loss or limb difference find prosthetic solutions that support their everyday activities, work, recreation and personal goals.

Our experienced Prosthetists take the time to understand your level of limb loss, physical abilities, lifestyle, activities and goals before recommending a prosthetic solution. With more than 30 years of experience, our team is committed to providing comfortable, functional and practical upper limb prostheses designed around each individual.

Can Adults Get an Upper Limb Prosthesis?

Yes. Adults with upper limb limb loss or limb difference may benefit from an upper limb prosthesis, depending on their individual needs, abilities and goals.

Upper limb prostheses can be designed for different levels of limb loss, including the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow and upper arm. Depending on your requirements, options may include passive, body-powered or myoelectric prostheses.

Your Prosthetist can assess your individual circumstances and discuss whether an upper limb prosthesis may help with daily activities, work, recreation or other functional goals.

What Types of Upper Limb Prostheses Are Available?

There are several types of upper limb prostheses available, with the most appropriate option depending on your level of limb loss, muscle control, strength, lifestyle and functional goals.

Options may include passive prostheses, body-powered prostheses and myoelectric prostheses. Myoelectric systems use electrical signals generated by muscles to control prosthetic components and may provide greater control for certain activities.

Advanced prosthetic hands and control systems are continually developing, with options available from a range of manufacturers. Depending on your requirements, technologies such as the Taska Hand or COAPT system may be considered as part of an appropriate prosthetic solution.

Our Prosthetists can explain the available options and help determine which technology may be appropriate for you.

Are Upper Limb Prostheses Comfortable?

Comfort is an important part of successful prosthetic use. An upper limb prosthesis should be appropriately fitted, aligned and suspended to provide a secure and comfortable connection to the residual limb.

Our Prosthetists consider factors such as socket fit, pressure distribution, skin health, suspension, weight and your individual anatomy when designing and fitting a prosthesis.

It can take time to adjust to a new prosthesis, and adjustments may be required as your body, activity levels or prosthetic needs change.

What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Using an Upper Limb Prosthesis?

An upper limb prosthesis may help support independence, function and participation in everyday activities, work, recreation and other aspects of life.

However, prosthetic use can also involve challenges. These may include changes in socket fit, skin irritation, discomfort, weight, maintenance requirements and learning to use a new device.

Not everyone uses a prosthesis in the same way. Some people may use a prosthesis throughout the day, while others may use one primarily for specific tasks or activities.

Regular Prosthetist reviews can help optimise fit, comfort and function as your needs change.

Can an Upper Limb Prosthesis Help With Work and Everyday Activities?

An upper limb prosthesis may help support a range of everyday and work-related activities, depending on the type of prosthesis, your individual abilities and the tasks involved.

Prosthetic solutions may be considered for activities such as dressing, cooking, household tasks, handling objects, work and recreation.

The most suitable prosthesis depends on the activities that are important to you. Your Prosthetist can assess your functional requirements and recommend components and control systems that align with your goals.

Can I Use an Upper Limb Prosthesis for Sport and Recreation?

Yes. Many people with upper limb limb loss or limb difference participate in sport, exercise, recreation and active hobbies.

An everyday prosthesis may not always be the most suitable option for every activity. Depending on your goals, an activity-specific or recreational prosthesis may be considered for activities such as cycling, swimming, gym training, running or other sports.

Our Prosthetists can discuss your activities with you and determine whether specialised components or a separate activity-specific prosthesis may be appropriate.

How Much Does an Upper Limb Prosthesis Cost?

The cost of an upper limb prosthesis varies considerably depending on the level of limb loss, type of prosthesis, components, technology and your individual requirements.

Factors that can influence the cost include the socket design, prosthetic components, suspension system, control system and level of technology required. Advanced myoelectric components can have different costs depending on the system selected.

Funding and out-of-pocket costs depend on individual circumstances and eligibility. Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics can provide guidance about available funding options, including the NDIS, where applicable, as well as other funding arrangements and self-funded options.

How Often Should an Upper Limb Prosthesis Be Replaced?

There is no fixed replacement schedule for every person. The lifespan of an upper limb prosthesis can depend on how frequently it is used, activity levels, component wear, changes to the residual limb and changing functional requirements.

A prosthetic socket may need to be adjusted or replaced if your residual limb changes shape or size, the fit becomes uncomfortable or your prosthetic requirements change. Individual components may also require servicing, maintenance or replacement over time.

Regular appointments with your Prosthetist allow the fit, comfort, components and function of your prosthesis to be monitored and maintained.

What Materials and Technology Are Used in Upper Limb Prostheses?

Upper limb prostheses can combine lightweight materials, mechanical components, electronic systems and advanced control technologies to provide functional solutions for people with limb loss.

Depending on the design, materials may include silicone, thermoplastics, aluminium, titanium, stainless steel and composite materials.

Modern prosthetic systems can incorporate a range of technologies, including advanced myoelectric hands and muscle-signal control systems. Your Prosthetist will consider your level of limb loss, muscle control, activity level, comfort, lifestyle and functional goals when selecting appropriate components.