Myoelectrics

Myoelectric Prosthetics: Intuitive Control Through Muscle Signals

What Are Myoelectric Prosthetics?

Myoelectric prosthetics are advanced artificial limbs controlled by electrical signals generated by your muscles. When you contract specific muscles in your residual limb, tiny sensors in the prosthetic pick up those signals and translate them into movement—allowing you to open and close a hand, bend an elbow, or rotate a wrist.

Unlike body-powered prosthetics that rely on harnesses and cables, myoelectric devices offer a more natural, intuitive experience with improved precision, strength, and comfort. These systems are commonly used for upper limb replacements, such as hands, wrists, and arms.

How Do Myoelectric Prosthetics Work?

Myoelectric prosthetics function through a combination of:

• Electrodes: Small sensors inside the socket detect electrical activity from residual limb muscles.
• Microprocessors: These onboard computers analyze the signals and decide how the prosthetic should respond.
• Motors: Tiny electric motors carry out the desired movements, such as gripping or lifting.

For example, when you think about closing your hand, your forearm muscles naturally contract. The prosthetic senses that contraction and triggers the hand to close—just like a biological hand would.

Benefits of Myoelectric Prosthetics

Myoelectric systems offer several advantages over traditional prosthetic designs:

• Natural, Intuitive Control: Users control the prosthesis using muscle signals, making movements feel more fluid and instinctive.
• No Harness Required: Since movement is powered by internal motors, users enjoy greater comfort and freedom of motion.
• Stronger Grip and Fine Motor Control: Many myoelectric hands offer multi-grip technology for tasks like holding a pencil, lifting a grocery bag, or shaking hands.
• Improved Appearance: Many models come with lifelike coverings, offering a more natural cosmetic appearance.

Advanced Myoelectric Technology in Action

Modern myoelectric devices range from simple one-grip hands to multi-articulating systems that mimic the complex movements of the human hand. Some well-known systems include:

• i-Limb® by Össur: Offers up to 36 programmable grip patterns for functional versatility.
• bebionic® Hand: Designed for proportional speed control and strong grip strength, suitable for everyday tasks.
• Michelangelo® Hand by Ottobock: Provides natural wrist rotation and grip functionality, including precision and power grips.

These devices often feature smartphone apps for customizing grip patterns and adjusting performance to fit individual needs.

Who Can Benefit from Myoelectric Prosthetics?

Myoelectric prosthetics are typically suited for individuals with:

• Upper limb loss (transradial or transhumeral amputations)
• Strong and consistent residual muscle signals
• A desire for more advanced functionality and natural appearance
• The ability to manage battery charging and device maintenance

Pediatric myoelectric options are also available, helping children gain greater independence in daily life.

Fitting and Training

At Advanced Prosthetics, we follow a personalized fitting and training process to ensure your myoelectric device works seamlessly for your lifestyle. This includes:

1. Evaluating your muscle signal strength and control
2. Custom-fitting the socket and configuring electrode placement
3. Training you to activate different grips and movements
4. Making regular adjustments as your skill improves

Proper training is key to maximizing the potential of your myoelectric system, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Explore Myoelectric Technology?

If you’re looking for a highly functional, lifelike prosthetic solution, a myoelectric device may be the right choice. Our team at Advanced Prosthetics specializes in cutting-edge prosthetic solutions tailored to your goals.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how myoelectric prosthetics can restore independence and confidence.