At The Shoulder Limb Loss
At The Shoulder Prosthetics in Gross Pointe, MI
Above and Beyond Orthopedics is dedicated to aiding patients for over a decade. Our emphasis lies on enhancing physical and mental well-being. We are highly skilled practitioners who offer exceptional orthotic and limb loss solutions to those residing in the Detroit metropolitan region. Our patients are our priority, and we provide personalized and empathetic care to enable them to regain mobility and elevate their standard of living.
Types of Shoulder Prosthetics
Shoulder prosthetics can be broadly categorized into two types: passive and active. Passive prosthetics do not have any mechanical or electronic components and are designed to simply replace the missing limb, providing a cosmetic appearance and some basic support.
Active prosthetics, on the other hand, use various mechanisms to allow the patient to move their arm and shoulder in a natural and intuitive way. These devices are more complex and require greater skill and training to use, but they offer a much greater degree of functionality and flexibility.
Within the active prosthetics category, there are several subtypes, including externally powered prosthetics, hybrid prosthetics, and fully implanted prosthetics.
Externally powered prosthetics are the most common type of active prosthetic. These devices use motors or other sources of power to control the movement of the arm and shoulder, which is controlled by the user through a variety of interfaces, such as buttons, switches, or even voice commands.
Hybrid prosthetics are a combination of passive and active prosthetics. They are usually designed to look and function like a natural arm, with the added bonus of being able to move and manipulate objects in a more natural way.
Fully implanted prosthetics are the most advanced and complex type of shoulder prosthetic. These devices are surgically implanted into the body and use a combination of sensors and artificial intelligence to interpret the user’s intentions and move the arm and shoulder accordingly.
Benefits of Shoulder Prosthetics
The benefits of shoulder prosthetics are numerous, both in terms of physical health and quality of life. One of the most obvious benefits is the restoration of some degree of mobility and independence for amputees. This can be a tremendous boon to individuals who have lost the use of one or both arms, allowing them to perform everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and getting dressed with greater ease.
Shoulder prosthetics can also help to alleviate physical discomfort and pain that often accompanies the loss of a limb. Prosthetics can help distribute weight and pressure more evenly across the body, reducing the strain on the remaining muscles and joints.
Another major benefit of shoulder prosthetics is their impact on mental health and well-being. Losing a limb can be a traumatic and life-changing event, and prosthetics can help individuals feel more confident, capable, and in control of their lives. This can lead to improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety and depression, and a greater sense of social connectedness.
Challenges of Using Shoulder Prosthetics
While shoulder prosthetics have many benefits, they also come with some challenges and limitations. One of the biggest challenges is learning how to use the device properly. Active prosthetics, in particular, can be very complex and require a great deal of training and practice to master.
In addition, shoulder prosthetics can be quite expensive, with costs ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. This can be a major barrier for many amputees, especially those who do not have insurance coverage or other means of financial support.
Another challenge is the need for regular maintenance and repairs. Prosthetics are subject to wear and tear, and parts may need to be replaced or repaired over time. This can be both time-consuming and costly, and it can be especially difficult for individuals who live in areas without access to specialized prosthetic care.
We Go Above & Beyond for Our Patients
“I recently worked with Above & Beyond to be fitted for orthotics – excellent experience. As a result of COVID, we’ve experienced and are accustomed to delays in service and products due to reasons most often outside of a provider’s control. What impressed me was that Above & Beyond took the time to proactively reach out and alert me to a slight delay in my order! During the fitting, Above & Beyond ensured the inserts fit the shoes I commonly wear and let me know a few brands that work well with inserts as I replace shoes. Can’t say enough about the customer service, knowledge and professionalism of the Above & Beyond team!”
– Sarah S.
At The Hip Prosthetics FAQ's
The most common causes of shoulder disarticulation amputation are surgery to remove cancer or infection and trauma.
Shoulder disarticulation amputation involves removing the entire arm and upper arm bone from the shoulder blade and collarbone, making it a complex procedure. Thinking about your functional and mobility goals following surgery is important as it helps your care team determine the best possible treatment plan for you while helping set expectations about the journey ahead.
If you are looking for an experienced upper limb prosthetist near your home, it is important to find a network of upper limb specialists across the United States who focus on complex cases like shoulder disarticulation. They will evaluate and fit you close to home, and their rehabilitation specialists will work with your local therapy team.
There are six upper limb prosthetic types: no prosthesis, passive, body-powered, myoelectric, hybrid, or activity-specific. Your prosthetist will recommend the best prosthetic type for you based on your desired goals.
Upper limb prostheses typically consist of a socket, suspension, elbow, wrist, and terminal device (most often a hand or hook). It is important that all components work together seamlessly, and the process takes time, so patience and support from your care team and peers is important.
Receive A Free Evaluation At Above and Beyond Orthopedics
Receive a complimentary assessment and discover your optimal prosthetic answer with Above and Beyond Orthopedics. Our devoted team located in Grosse Pointe, MI, and throughout the greater Detroit area will persistently work to ensure you attain the freedom and mobility to live life to the fullest. Our tailored fittings and accessories will supply you with everything required to be your best self daily.