Above Elbow Prosthesis

When fitting an above elbow prosthesis, the function of the elbow and the hand must be taken into consideration. The primary function of the elbow joint is to bend (flex) and straighten (extend) the arm. The primary function of the hand is to grasp.

There are a wide variety of choices in components for the elbow and terminal device. The choices are dependent on what the wearer?s ultimate goals are. The emphasis can be on function, on cosmetics, or a combination of both.