[New Study] Bionic Arm Benefits – Confidence, Independence, and Economic Growth

Recent independent research shows the butterfly effect of advanced bionic arms with measurable benefits for individuals with limb differences and the wider economy.

A bionic hand can change the way a person interacts with their world, and a 2025 study published in Scientific Reports has analyzed how advanced bionics creates measurable social and economic impact.

The research, led by the Italian Institute of Technology and the Italian National Insurance Institute, followed 11 upper-limb amputees who used a bionic hand in daily life. The findings showed that for every dollar invested in bionics, roughly nine times that investment was generated through improved function, job reintegration, independence, and reduced caregiving needs. In just one year, the study group produced three times the cost of a single prosthetic device through economic and social value. Projections over five years showed an 874% return. Restoring independence through technology pays off for individuals and for society as a whole.

Open Bionics clinics have seen that same ripple effect in the lives of Hero Arm, Hero PRO, and Hero RGD users. 

In Michigan, Paul, a father and auto yard manager, found relief from years of shoulder strain after being fitted with a Hero PRO. “It fits perfectly,” he said. “Now, I can actually put some down force on my arm instead of dragging it along.” His fiancée Jessica noticed an immediate change. “The first thing Paul did was hold a soda while driving.”

In New Jersey, Danielle A., who lost both hands to sepsis, upgraded to a Hero PRO to regain comfort and control. “It’s made walking with a cane much easier,” she said. The water resistance of her device also allows her to enjoy simple comforts, like reading in the bath.

On a Kansas farm, Conor put a Hero RGD to the test. Built from stainless steel, titanium and tough nylon, the bionic hand is capable of lifting up to 77 pounds and works from sunrise to sunset. “Whether it’s scooping feed or shovelling straw, I love that I don’t have to switch prosthetics,” he said. “This hand does it all—lift heavy, waterproof, solid grip.”

That same sense of independence has reached younger Hero PRO users like 17-year-old Davic, who returned to school carrying his own backpack for the first time since the amputation of his arm. “Last year, someone else had to do it for him,” said his mom, Sandra. “Now he’s independent and confident. The kids call him ‘the bionic kid.’”

Clinicians have observed additional benefits from advanced bionics. The wireless capabilities of the Hero PRO and Hero RGD allow for faster evaluations, more precise fittings, and fewer adjustments, all of which contribute to long-term success for our users. 

Our observations coincide with the findings from the Scientific Reports study, that the adoption of advanced bionics represents greater participation in communities across the nation and growth for the wider economy. When people return to their jobs, rediscover hobbies, or move through life with confidence, the ripple effect extends well beyond the individual.

Book a free consultation at an Open Bionics clinic near you to explore the possibilities of a bionic hand.