Choosing the right prosthetic clasp is personal and practical. There are different types of hooks, including body-powered and myoelectric, and it’s important to consider usability, comfort, and weight. Some hooks are designed for special needs.
Choosing a prosthetic clasp is both a personal and a practical decision. There are different types of hooks and while they all provide the same basic function, some are designed to work better in specific circumstances. The best prosthetic brace will meet your individual needs and preferences in terms of size, design, and comfort.
Typically, a prosthetic clasp is a functional piece of equipment. Along with some types of prosthetic hands and preensors, a hook serves as a grasping mechanism for an amputee. Many everyday tasks can be completed with the use of a hook, including typing, tying shoelaces, and using a paring knife.
The prosthesis actually consists of two clasps, which fit tightly together and can be opened and closed. The hooks are body powered or myoelectric. A body-powered hook includes a tension cord that slides into the holster. Extending the limb usually opens the grips. With practice, amputees have found this to be a very practical and usable system. Myoelectric prosthetic clasps use surface electrodes to sense muscle movement and transfer it to a battery-powered prosthesis.
Some research indicates that body-powered hooks have more satisfying results than myoelectric hooks. Myoelectric hooks occasionally have reliability issues and sometimes do not respond immediately to muscle signals. The upside to them is that they provide a very strong grip, up to 26 pounds (12 kilograms).
If possible, try both a myoelectric prosthetic hook and a body-powered one. You may find that you prefer one over the other. It’s important to consider the usability of the hook, but don’t forget to compare the comfort and weight of the two. An uncomfortable or heavy denture, even if it has other benefits, will make daily activities uncomfortable.
The hook itself is usually made of steel or aluminum, in varying lengths and weights. The heavier hooks are used for heavy use. The light hooks are for light, daily use. The inside of the hooks may be lined with rubber grips to increase friction, although some hooks have grooves in the metal surface rather than rubber.
Some hooks are designed with special needs in mind. For example, a work hook is made to hold a broom or shovel handle and may include a knife, nail or screwdriver holder. There are even special sized hooks for kids. These are typically smaller and lighter than adult hooks.
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