Body-Powered Systems
What are body-powered systems?
A body-powered arm prosthesis uses a harness and cable. Motion of the shoulders, upper arms, or opposite side tensions the cable and opens or closes a hook or hand, and in some designs operates the elbow. Voluntary-opening and voluntary-closing terminal devices are both used. These systems do not require batteries.
Why are body-powered systems used?
Body-powered prostheses are widely used because they are durable, relatively lightweight, and give the wearer direct sensory feedback through cable tension. MSD Manual notes they are often favored by people who do physical labor and tend to cost less and need less maintenance than myoelectric systems. They require enough residual motion and strength to work the harness, and they are less suitable if the opposite shoulder cannot take a strap.
What are the benefits of body-powered systems?
- Durable and generally lower maintenance than powered systems
- No battery to charge
- Direct feedback through the cable
- Often well suited to outdoor or heavy work when a hook is used
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