Prosthetic Fingers: Which Type is Right for You?

Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics • August 22, 2024

Of upper extremity amputations, about 90% are comprised of partial hand loss. Losing even a small portion of your hand, such as a finger, can significantly affect your ability to participate in everyday activities. Fortunately, several finger prostheses are available, and Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics has all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Smiling man wearing glasses with a missing finger at Durrett's Orthotic & Prosthetic Services near Edgewood, KY

Silicone Prosthetic Fingers

Silicone prosthetic fingers are passive prostheses, meaning they don’t have active movement. A silicone prosthesis can provide psychosocial benefits for amputees, such as increasing their confidence when around others. They are also very lightweight and can provide stability for carrying objects. A silicone prosthetic finger is also ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to have a harness device or worry about charging batteries overnight.

Robotic Prosthetic Fingers

Robotic prosthetic fingers have individual motors that move the finger when your residual limb moves and create electrical impulses. An electrically powered finger replicates natural movement as closely as possible and can bend, point, and pick up small objects. The potential drawbacks of this type of prosthetic are that you must charge it every night, and most cannot get wet. Robotic prosthetics can also be less durable than other prostheses, like body-powered ones, which may factor into your decision.

Should You Have Multiple Prosthetic Fingers?

Many people with finger loss find that owning multiple prosthetic fingers makes life easier. Perhaps your job requires the function and dexterity of a myoelectric device, but you prefer something more basic and durable for weekend activities. This is an excellent example of why you may want more than one prosthesis. It’s also important to remember that prosthetic fingers wear over time. You may need to have repairs or refitting, and without a secondary device, you may have limited ability to engage in daily activities.

How to Choose a Prosthetic Finger

When choosing a prosthetic finger, we want to help ensure that the prosthesis you select is the best for your needs. You should consider what type of device you want and the features that appeal to you.

Another essential consideration is what you do for work and the hobbies you enjoy in your free time. Do you have any goals, like learning to play an instrument or participating in athletic events? Answering these questions will help our team suggest the prosthesis that will be the most beneficial for you.

Prosthetic Fingers Near Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN

Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics has been providing exceptional service since 1958. We are a family-owned business, and our team offers compassionate care in state-of-the-art facilities in Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN. Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics offers services for people of all ages, and our patient info page has answers to many frequently asked questions.

Contact us today to schedule an evaluation or appointment. Durrett’s Orthotics and Prosthetics proudly serves Erlanger, Florence, Covington, Fort Thomas, Union, Walton, Edgewood, Oakbrook, Taylorsport, Fort Mitchell, Hebron, Beaverlick, Burlington, Belleview, Independence, Newport, Verona, Elsmere, KY, and Cincinnati, OH.

Woman with robotic prosthetic arm working in an office at Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics near Edg
By Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics December 27, 2024
We share some of the many benefits of robotic prosthetics. Contact us near Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN, to speak with a prosthetics and orthotics specialist.
Man with a prosthetic leg standing on a staircase at Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics near Edgewood
By Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics November 21, 2024
Learn more about the cost of prosthetics and their care at Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation with our team.
Man with lower limb prosthetic near Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN
By Durrett’s Orthotics & Prosthetics October 24, 2024
Learn about lower limb prosthesis options near Edgewood, KY, and Lawrenceburg, IN. Contact us with your questions or to schedule an evaluation.
Show More
Share by: