Factors Affecting Myoelectric Prosthetic Use and Wearing Patterns in the Juvenile Unilateral Below-Elbow Amputee

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the wearing pattern, both past and current, the skill level and the degree of spontaneous, functional use of the myoelectric prosthesis in juvenile congenital unilateral below-elbow amputees. Data, in the form of parent and teacher questionnaires and individual evaluations using the University of New Brunswick Test of Prosthetic Function, was collected on 17 subjects ranging in age from 3-1/2 to 15 years. Results indicated an obvious decline in wearing time when children changed from a conventional prosthesis to a myoelectric prosthesis. Correlational results indicated some significant relationships between various factors of myoelectric prosthetic use.