Myoelectric Prosthetics; Introduction to Upper Limb Prosthetics

Compiled by: Ekundayo Toheeb Dayo

The article is a 4 minute-read.

The primary purpose of an arm prosthetic is to mimic the appearance and replace the function of a missing limb. While a single prosthetic that achieves both a natural appearance and extreme functionality would be ideal, most artificial limbs that exist today sacrifice some degree of one for the other. As such, there is a wide spectrum of specialized prosthetics that range from the purely cosmetic (which are inert) to the primarily functional (whose appearance is obviously mechanical). 


 
Myoelectric prosthetics are an attempt to serve both purposes of an artificial limb equally, without sacrificing appearance for functionality.

So what are myoelectric prosthetics and how do they work?

Functional arm prosthetics can be broadly categorized into two camps:

• Body-powered and
• Externally-powered prosthetics.

 

Body-powered prosthetics use cables and harnesses strapped to the individual to mechanically maneuver the artificial limb through muscle, shoulder, and arm movement. While they are highly durable, they often sacrifice a natural appearance for moderate functionality. As well, though the user experiences direct control and feedback through its mechanical operation, the process can be fatiguing.

Externally-powered artificial limbs are an attempt to solve this physical exertion through using a battery and an electronic system to control movement. At the forefront of this technology is the myoelectric prosthetic.

Myoelectric prosthetics have a number of advantages over body-powered prosthetics. Since it uses a battery and electronic motors to function, the myoelectric artificial limb does not require any unwieldy straps or harnesses to function. Instead, it is custom made to fit and attach to the remaining limb (whether above the elbow or below) with maximum suspension using suction technology. Once it is attached, the prosthetic uses electronic sensors to detect minute muscle, nerve, and EMG activity. It then translates this muscle activity (as triggered by the user) into information that its electric motors use to control the artificial limbs movements. The end result is that the artificial limb moves much like a natural limb, according to the mental stimulus of the user. The user can even control the strength and speed of the limb’s movements and grip by varying his or her muscle intensity. As well, the acute sensors and motorized controls enable greater dexterity, even allowing the manipulation and use of small items like keys or credit cards through functioning fingers.
 

In addition to this extreme functionality, the myoelectric artificial limb needs not sacrifice any of its cosmetic appearance.

The most advanced versions of these prosthetics are incredibly natural and on par with purely cosmetic limbs. For upper-limb amputees, myoelectric-controlled prostheses offer the ultimate combination of function and natural appearance. Designed to mimic human anatomy and motion, electronic components are the closest alternative to an anatomical hand or arm. 

Thanks to constantly advancing technology, the latest prosthetic systems feature astonishing capabilities:

- Elbows that flex and extend with muscle signals so you can reach for a beverage and bring it to your lips.
- Wrists that bend and rotate, allowing you to position objects for convenient viewing and handling.
- Hands that can lug a suitcase or hold an egg without cracking it.
- Thumbs that can change orientation to over multiple hand positions.

The primary disadvantages of this kind of prosthetic are currently their weight and cost. Their heavy weight is primarily due to the fact that the myoelectric artificial limb contains a battery and motor inside, and unlike the body-powered prosthetic, it does not use any harnesses to counter-balance the weight across the body. This is an admitted trade-off for a more natural appearance. As well, as the technology develops, the weight of each component will eventually become lighter and less of a problem.

The other disadvantage of myoelectrics is the cost. While it is currently more expensive than other kinds of prosthetics, it also offers the best quality in regard to both cosmetics and functionality. Like the problem of weight, it is estimated that the cost will eventually diminish as the technology becomes cheaper to reproduce.

Please leave your comments and suggestions below. Also like-it, and share with friends as well.