Prosthetics changed the world for the better, and progressed even more over the past couple of years. Thanks to the rise of technology, these devices became much more sophisticated than before. As a result, many people have chosen to use them as their highly functioning and technologically advanced limbs. However, innovation doesn’t stop here. Below, we are listing some of the top advances in prosthetic technology that we have seen this year as illustrated in the video.
Consciously Controlled Limbs
First in our list are brain-controlled prosthetics which are already available on some markets. If you think about it, this is a next-gen innovation and a technology that will reshape medicine as we know it.
Even though it is still in the early stages, this technology is being tested with brain implants which are used to control the limb. Research is progressing quickly, which is why it won’t be long until we see the next generation of prosthetic limbs being controlled without any brain implant in the (near) future.
3D Printing & Prosthetics
3D printing has caused a big boom in the manufacturing and construction industries. However, it is equally impressive when viewed from the prism of the prosthetic community. Mainly, it is an innovation that allows for more cost-effective prosthetics – helping children and adults who want a lightweight option as their futuristic limb.
Bionic Arms
Believe it or not, bionic arms are something that is being created today. These arms use electricity and robotics to create or mimic movement. The most impressive devices use muscle sensors that are connected to the skin, allowing the user to naturally operate their limbs.
Nerve Detectors
Nerve detectors are very similar to bionic limbs. They use the mind of the user to think that they are actually moving the limb. The “connection” here is derived from the spinal motor neurons (instead of muscle like with the bionic arms), where sensors capture the commands and permit the prosthetic to move more freely rather than be limited to a couple of movements.
New Designs
Last but not least are some new designs in the world of prosthetics. These mainly include see-through designs, which are functional and cool. There are even some models made out of titanium, and models that can be customized to the needs of the user.
At Hamilton Prosthetics & Orthotics, we welcome all patients with limb loss; from and encourage them to find a solution that will help them live a happy and long life. We support patients with amputations related to various problems, no matter how complex they are.