🔧 Mechanical Prosthetics
No batteries needed! These clever tools use your own body power to grip, hold, and carry.
Works Like Bicycle Brakes!
The simplest prosthetics don't use electronics at all. A body-powered prosthetic arm uses a harness that wraps around your shoulders and back. Cables connect to the hook or hand at the end.
When you shrug your shoulder forward, it pulls on the cable, which opens the hook. Relax your shoulder, and rubber bands snap it closed again. It works exactly like squeezing a bicycle hand brake!
Hook is CLOSED
Click the button to open and close the hook, just like pulling a cable!
Prosthetic hooks might look simple, but they're incredibly useful! People can grip tools, carry heavy bags, hold utensils, and even grab things from hot water since metal doesn't feel heat.
How It Stays On
Prosthetics attach to the body in three main ways. Each one is designed to keep the prosthetic secure and comfortable all day long.
The Socket
A custom-made cup that fits perfectly over the remaining limb. It's like a shoe made just for you!
The Liner
A soft layer made of silicone or gel that cushions the skin. Think of it as cozy padding inside.
The Lock
Holds it all together! Pin locks click like LEGO, suction cups stick like glass, or straps hold like a backpack.
Hooks vs. Mechanical Hands
🧲 Hook
Simple but super strong. Great for gripping tools and heavy objects. Can handle heat. Very reliable.
✋ Hand
Looks more natural. Works the same way with cables. Better for social situations. Same gripping power.
Kids learning to use prosthetics typically start by practicing simple tasks like opening and closing the hand. Then they move on to everyday activities like eating, writing, and brushing teeth.
Many people who use prosthetics choose different tools for different activities! They might use a hook for work, a natural-looking hand for going out, and a special attachment for their favorite sport.
Body-powered prosthetics have been around for over 100 years! The basic design hasn't changed much because it works so well. They're lighter than bionic arms, don't need batteries, and give the user direct feedback through the cable tension - you can actually "feel" how hard you're gripping based on how much resistance you feel in your shoulder.
Many adult users actually prefer body-powered prosthetics over expensive bionic ones for heavy-duty work because they're more reliable and don't break down.
Test Your Knowledge!
Q1. How does a body-powered prosthetic arm open its hook?
Q2. What is the "socket" in a prosthetic?
Q3. Why can a prosthetic hook grab things from hot water?