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Custom Upper Extremity Prosthetic Devices in Las Cruces, NM
If you have an upper limb amputation, it doesn’t mean you no longer have independence. Upper limb prosthetics make it possible for amputees to live fulfilled lives. PrimeCare Orthotics & Prosthetics is proud to be a prosthesis provider in Albuquerque and El Paso areas.
What Is a Prosthetic Arm?
There are approximately 1.7 million Americans living with a limb loss, which is one out of every 200 people.
Thankfully, devices for upper limb amputees have come a long way over the years. Those with an upper extremity prosthesis use arm prosthetics - artificial substitutes for a partial or entire hand or arm lost due to injury, accident, illness, or congenital disability.
These devices come in various shapes, designs, and sizes to fit different needs. For example, a prosthetic hand or arm is usually made from shafts, sockets, and components that mimic how a limb attaches to a joint.
Any upper extremity prosthesis may be cosmetic, functional, or both. A cosmetic prosthesis helps the limb look natural but provides minimal functionality. Functional prosthesis helps execute tasks that would otherwise be incredibly challenging due to limb loss; however, it doesn’t offer a cosmetic disguise.
Upper Extremity Prosthetic Components
Provides a function for the distal end of a prosthesis. It may include hands, hooks, and other equipment that is specific to a particular activity.
Provides a foundation for the prosthesis by enclosing the residual limb.
Supports the prosthesis and works with the control system to provide proper functioning.
Wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints may also be included.
Types of Upper Extremity Prosthetics We Provide
PrimeCare Orthotics and Prosthetics helps patients, regardless of their levels of upper extremity amputations. We have prosthetic arms, hands, and fingers to let you live a normal life.
Choosing Types of Upper Extremity Prosthesis for Arm Amputees
Each type of upper limb amputation impacts what kind of prosthetic device or technology you are a candidate for and ultimately decide on. That's because the amputating parts of your upper limb (arm, hand, or finger) affects your ability to use some prosthetic technologies.
Due to the complexity of the human arm and hand, we often recommend multiple terminal or prosthetic devices for each amputation level. We advise patients to choose the right types of prosthetic arms and devices for their job or the activity they are involved in to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our upper extremity prosthetic devices include:
- Body Powered (Conventional)
- Externally Powered (Myo-Electric)
- Hybrid Systems
- Cosmetic Prosthesis
- Activity-Specific
Patient’s Limb
Before recommending upper extremity prosthetic devices, our prosthetists consider the length and condition of your residual limb, including its range of motion and strength, as well as your activity level, occupation and leisure activities, and current health status.
Occupation
When developing upper extremity prosthetic components, your occupation is also taken into account. Every patient is fitted specifically to suit his or her specific needs, no matter what type of employment they have.
Leisure Activities
PrimeCare aims to restore each patient's mobility and quality of life and help them return to an active lifestyle, including participating in hobbies, sports, and recreational activities. We are able to select prosthetic parts that are most appropriate to you based on your goals.
How We Work
- Stage 1: First Consultation
During your first appointment, your prosthetist will ask about your medical history and discuss your goals. Additionally, they will take measurements for device fabrication during this consultation and send your information to your insurance provider for approval.
- Stage 2: Insurance Approval & Prosthetic Fabrication
Following approval by insurance, we send your specs to our world-renowned prosthetics provider, Össur. Upper extremity prosthetic components are carefully chosen for maximum comfort to accommodate your unique condition. Usually, it takes 2-3 days to make the prosthetic after the components arrive.
- Stage 3: Fitting & Socket Fabrication
During your fitting appointment, your prosthetist will also assemble your direct socket system (if required). We use Össur’s direct socket system, which takes 2 hours to build, so you receive your socket and prosthetic on the same day.
- Stage 4: OPS Pro App Monitoring
PrimeCare's first-time amputees receive temporary prosthetics for 3-12 months. We carefully monitor and evaluate your condition and lifestyle before selecting definitive arm prosthetics solutions. Dedicated monitoring via our app is essential to ensure comfort and mobility as you progress, as well as regular checkups to assess your prosthetic prescription.
- Stage 5: Establishing Your Routine
Recovery often involves gaining momentum and adjusting to your new lifestyle. Your residual limb will continue to heal internally for a few weeks, and you’ll use your first few months as an amputee to determine your specific lifestyle needs.
- Stage 6: Receiving your definitive prosthesis
After successfully using the preparatory prosthetic device, we analyze the movement data collected from the tracking app. Developing a final arm prosthetics is an individual process. All the small details are considered when designing and developing the definitive version.
- Stage 7: Full Healing
Through the healing process, you'll gain a stronger sense of identity and accomplishment. No matter what your goals are, we are here to help you achieve them. There’s no limit to what you can do!
Upper Limb Prosthetics Technology Options We Work With
i-Limb
i-Digits Quantum
beBionic Hand
Types of Upper Extremity Prosthetics for First-Time Arm Amputees
If you’re a first-time amputee, you likely have questions and apprehensions about the process. Rest assured that our team is highly experienced in providing upper extremity myoelectric prostheses to our patients.
You’ll start the process with an initial consultation and we’ll work to compile the right products for your rehabilitation. We then work to get the device approved through your insurance while we send your specs to our prosthetics provider.
Next, we will conduct a fitting and socket fabrication. All first-time amputees will be fitted with a temporary prosthesis for 3-12 months. From there, we carefully select the right solutions for your needs. Once we know that the preparatory prosthetic device functioned as it should, we will develop a final prosthesis for you.
Request a Free Arm Prosthetics Evaluation
To find out more information about our different types of prosthetic arms, contact our prosthetic arm company today. We’d love to help you.
Why Choose PrimeCare for Upper Extremity Prosthetic Components in Las Cruces?
Personalized Support
Latest Technologies
Experienced Team
Patient Success Stories
Contact Local Prosthetics and Orthotics Provider in New Mexico
PrimeCare is located in Las Cruces and Albuquerque but helps patients from Ciudad Juarez, El Paso, and surrounding areas.
Mon-Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
FAQ
Can I play sports with upper limb prostheses?
Yes, an upper limb prosthesis allows individuals to continue to play sports such as cycling, golfing, rowing, and many more. In many cases, there is a flexible or multi-axis joint that helps attach any sports equipment to the prosthetic part.
Do you provide emergency repair support for arm prosthetics?
Yes, we are happy to provide our patients with emergency repairs if they need assistance with their prosthetics. We know how important it is to continue to lead a happy and fulfilled life and we’ll always be here to help when you need it!
How much does a prosthetic arm cost?
A prosthetic arm price is determined by its functionality and components. It’s difficult for prosthetic arm companies like us to give an exact number because every patient’s needs are different. If you book a free consultation, we can provide more accurate pricing.
What is the most common type of upper extremity amputation?
Excluding finger amputations, traumatic transradial (forearm) and transhumeral (above the elbow) are the most common upper limb amputations. At PrimeCare, we have upper extremity prosthetic components to help all upper limb amputees.
