One of the first questions people ask after an upper limb amputation is when they can get back to work. The answer depends on a lot of factors: the level of the amputation, the type of job, how healing progresses, and when prosthetic fitting begins.
What is consistent across most cases is that returning to work is achievable. The timeline varies. The path is rarely a straight line. But with the right device, the right clinical team, and realistic expectations about each phase, most people do get back to meaningful employment.
This guide covers the practical timeline from surgery to workplace reintegration, what the Hero PRO and Hero RGD make possible across different job types, and what to expect from each stage of the process.
Weeks 1 to 6
The immediate post-operative period focuses on healing, pain management, and preparing the residual limb for prosthetic fitting. A physiatrist, a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, typically takes over from the surgical team and coordinates pain management, therapy referrals, and return-to-work planning. Residual limb shaping with a compression sock or shrinker begins during this phase to reduce swelling and prepare the limb for a socket.
Weeks 6 to 12
Once the surgical site is healed and swelling has stabilized, prosthetic fitting typically starts. A preparatory or check socket is often fitted first to accommodate limb volume changes as the residual limb continues to mature. Occupational therapy begins in parallel, focusing on how to use the device for real-world tasks. This is the phase where goals matter most. What you want to do at work should shape how your device is configured from the start.
Months 3 to 6
The definitive device is fitted once limb volume has stabilized. For myoelectric users, this is when sensitivity calibration, grip mode training, and workplace-specific skills are built through occupational therapy and the Sidekick App. Many people return to work in some capacity during this phase, either in a modified role or with workplace accommodations in place.
6 months and beyond
Control improves with consistent use and training. Many users report that the device begins to feel intuitive in the months following initial fitting. Return to previous employment, including physically demanding roles, is common by this stage for below-elbow users with myoelectric devices. Some workers benefit from a therapist visiting the workplace to assess specific task demands and suggest adaptations.
Research shows approximately 66% of people return to work following an upper limb amputation. The figure is higher for those who are fitted early, trained thoroughly, and supported by a multidisciplinary clinical team.
Emily Shannon, a certified prosthetist at our Orlando, Florida clinic, sees this pattern consistently in her patients.
“A lot of people think they have to wait a long time after an amputation before they can even start the process. But starting early can make a huge difference. It keeps you from forming habits that strain your other arm and it helps you get your life back sooner.”
Emily Shannon, certified prosthetist, Open Bionics clinic, Orlando, FloridaThe goal is not just to get back to work. It is to get back to work with a device that keeps up.
The Hero PRO and Hero RGD are the only fully wireless, waterproof bionic arms on the market. The wireless design removes cable systems and electrode leads from the socket, which reduces friction during active work and eliminates a common source of discomfort and failure in demanding environments. The Hero RGD adds enhanced durability for environments where impact, moisture, and heavy use are factors.
Both devices use the wireless MyoPods to detect muscle signals, which can be placed anywhere on the residual limb for optimal signal quality. The Sidekick App lets clinicians configure grip modes to match the specific tasks a patient needs to perform, whether that is precision pinch for delicate work or hook grip for carrying and lifting.
Lucy, who uses her Hero Arm as a warehouse worker at Screwfix, described what daily professional use actually looks like.
“I use it every day at work. I can push cages, trollies, and drive any manual handling equipment around the warehouse, as well as using other heavy machinery and equipment.”
Lucy, Hero Arm userDaniel, who works as a technician, found the Hero Arm handled the two-handed demands of his role consistently.
“For me the arm has been incredibly useful for my job as a technician because I do a lot of work that generally requires two hands, and it has been more than capable keeping up with the workload.”
Daniel, Hero Arm userMike, a military veteran now using the Hero RGD, put 30 years of bionic arm experience into one observation.
“I have had 5 other bionic arms over the past 30 years and the last two by far have been the easiest to use and the most unique of them all.”
Mike, Hero RGD user
Robert owns a vending machine company with more than 250 machines across Jacksonville, Florida. He hauls product, installs compressors, fixes electrical issues, and physically manages day-to-day operations. On July 4, 2025, a mortar went off in his right hand and took approximately eleven inches of his arm. He is left-handed, which he credits with saving his other hand.
His attitude from the start was deliberate. “You cannot control stuff. Things happen in your life and nothing is going to change it. Nothing is going to grow my arm back. The only thing I have control over is my attitude. Right from the beginning I said, we are not getting depressed. We are making jokes about it.”
The accident changed how he works. “With our business, I am the guy that fixes everything and keeps things going,” he said. “This has really been a setback having one hand. I get things done, but not as fast as I used to and I cannot do it all like I used to.”
But what hit him hardest was losing what mattered most outside of work. He and his wife Christina hunt whitetail in Georgia and fish offshore in Florida. He had a ticket to Alaska for the salmon run, booked before the accident. He was supposed to leave the following week. “Then I blew my arm off,” he said. “I was supposed to go. I’m still planning on going.”
When hospital staff suggested a basic training prosthesis to start, Robert declined immediately. “They said, just get this base model. As a beginner, just to see if you might like it. I said, no, I am not doing that. I already know that I need something useful.” His brother-in-law had already been researching options and pointed him toward Open Bionics. “He said, you need to look at these guys and talk to them. Right from the go, we were like, yeah, these are the people we want to work with for sure.”
At his fitting appointment in Orlando, he walked in carrying two fishing rods. What he needed from a device was clear: multiple grip patterns for tools and product, durability for working in Florida heat and wet environments, and waterproofing for boat decks, tree stands, and compressor installs. The Hero PRO, with its quick-disconnect wrist and modular activity attachment ecosystem, was the answer.
“It will be good to have the water resistance of this arm. That was a big deal for me, especially up in Alaska. We went through a lot to get this, so we are going to keep it in as good shape as we can.”
Robert, Hero PRO user, Jacksonville, FloridaThe Hero PRO was fully funded through his insurance. His clinical team fast-tracked his evaluation and fitting so Robert could receive his device before the end of the year and maximize his insurance benefits. He was just five months post-amputation at the time of fitting. His certified prosthetist Emily Shannon, at the Orlando clinic, spoke directly to what that early start makes possible.
“Robert is only five months out and he is already controlling a myoelectric hand with a functional socket. More people should know it is not off the table. If you have good healing and good muscle signals, starting early can make a huge difference. It keeps you from forming habits that strain your other arm and it helps you get your life back sooner.”
Emily Shannon, certified prosthetist, Open Bionics Orlando clinicEmily added that his goals were already shaping how the device was configured. “The fact that he is using this device so early in his recovery is a big deal, and it shows how motivated he is. He is already thinking about work tasks and fishing attachments. That is exactly why we wanted to fast-track this for him.”
Robert talks about what comes next with the same clarity he brought to his recovery. He wants to drive a forklift, lift cases of soda, and stock machines with both hands. He wants to stop putting all the strain on his left arm. He wants to stand in Alaska’s rivers with sockeye at his feet.
“I blew my arm off this year, but I’m still planning on going to Alaska. With this arm, I feel like I actually can.”
Robert, Hero PRO userReturn-to-work planning works best when it starts from the specific demands of the job. A warehouse role has different grip and load requirements than an office environment. A tradesperson’s daily tasks differ from a teacher’s. Open Bionics clinicians configure devices around those real-world needs from the first fitting appointment.
Across job types, there are consistent patterns in what matters most:
Manual and trade roles benefit most from the Hero RGD’s enhanced durability, the hook grip mode for carrying and tool use, and the Hero Flex socket’s compatibility with activity-specific attachments. The waterproof design means the device can handle environments where conventional myoelectric arms would need to be removed.
Office and professional roles tend to prioritize precision pinch and tripod grips for typing, writing, and handling documents. The wireless design removes the bulk and discomfort of cable systems during extended desk work. Grip mode switching through the Sidekick App can be customized to minimize the number of transitions needed throughout the day.
Roles requiring public-facing interaction often see the greatest benefit from the confidence shift that comes with wearing a device that looks and performs the way the Hero PRO and Hero RGD do. Benjamin, who returned to previous activities he had given up after his amputation, described the broader impact in straightforward terms.
“My Hero Arm has allowed me to return to many of my previous activities I could no longer do since my amputation.”
Benjamin, Hero Arm user
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers with 15 or more employees are required to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, including those returning after limb loss. Reasonable accommodations can include modified workstation setup, adjusted task assignments during early reintegration, altered schedules during the training phase, and ergonomic equipment.
Workers’ compensation cases involving upper limb amputation typically include vocational rehabilitation support. This can cover prosthetic fitting, occupational therapy, and retraining for a modified or alternative role where the original position is no longer accessible. If the amputation occurred on the job, your employer’s workers’ compensation carrier is required to coordinate this process.
It is worth having a frank conversation with your prosthetist and occupational therapist about your specific workplace before your return. Some clinicians will visit a worksite directly to assess task demands, which leads to better device configuration and a faster, more confident reintegration.
The research is consistent: early prosthetic fitting correlates with higher wear rates, better functional outcomes, and higher rates of return to employment. The first few months after an upper limb amputation are when habits, compensations, and adaptations are set. Starting the prosthetic process during that window gives you the best foundation.
Open Bionics operates specialist upper limb clinics across the United States. Every consultation is free. The clinical team will work with you to understand your job, your goals, and your timeline, and build a fitting and training plan around them.
If you are in the early stages of recovery and beginning to think about returning to work, a conversation with an Open Bionics clinician is a good place to start. If you are further along and considering an upgrade to the Hero PRO or Hero RGD, that conversation is just as valuable.
Speak with an Open Bionics clinician at no cost. We will help you build a plan around your job, your goals, and your timeline.
Book a free consultationGetting a prosthetic arm follows a clear clinical pathway. A consultation leads to evaluation, device selection, insurance review, and a custom fitting designed around the shape and function of your limb.
Understanding how to get a prosthetic arm makes the process far less intimidating. Many people begin with a simple consultation and end with a device tailored to their daily life.
Advances in myoelectric technology allow modern bionic arms to support everyday activities such as cooking, typing, lifting tools, and returning to work. Certified prosthetists guide patients through each stage so the device responds naturally to muscle signals and fits comfortably throughout the day.
Getting a prosthetic arm usually involves six steps:
Each stage ensures the device fits securely, responds accurately to muscle signals, and supports the activities that matter most in daily life.
Curiosity about prosthetic technology often begins with small daily frustrations. Cooking with one hand, carrying groceries, or managing tasks that once felt automatic can gradually lead someone to explore new options.
“There comes a point where getting a prosthetic arm stops feeling hypothetical and starts feeling like something your future self might genuinely appreciate,” said Lucas Slusher, a Hero PRO user who previously used the Hero Arm. “Maybe it’s the frustration of doing everything one-handed or the desire for something that feels more natural.”
Amy, a Hero PRO user, described a similar realization when she first explored modern prosthetic technology. “I didn’t realize how much was possible until I actually tried it,” she said. “Suddenly things that felt difficult every day started to feel achievable again.”
A free prosthetic consultation often becomes the first step toward discovering what is possible.
A prosthetic consultation begins the process of learning how to get a prosthetic arm.
Patients meet with a certified prosthetist who reviews medical history, evaluates the residual limb, and discusses lifestyle goals. Work requirements, hobbies, and daily routines all influence which prosthetic system may work best.
Lucas remembers submitting his consultation request.
“There’s a small spark of hope when you hit submit on that form,” Lucas said. “Once you do, the team reaches out to schedule your appointment and walk you through what comes next.”
Conversation during a consultation often includes:
“This is where things begin to feel real,” Lucas said. “You talk about your goals and explore different device options.”
Clinical evaluation also includes testing muscle signals in the residual limb, which will eventually control the prosthetic hand.
Hands-on experience often becomes the most memorable part of the consultation.
Sensors inside a myoelectric prosthesis detect electrical signals produced when muscles contract. The prosthetic hand responds to those signals and allows users to open and close the fingers.
“There’s nothing like the first time you slip on a bionic hand and feel the fingers respond to your muscle signals,” Lucas said.
Paul Black, who has used prosthetic devices for many years, described how modern myoelectric systems offered far more natural control than earlier designs.
Trying the technology often changes expectations about what prosthetic arms can do.
During a consultation, clinicians may demonstrate different prosthetic systems depending on lifestyle needs.
| Feature | Hero PRO | Hero RGD |
|---|---|---|
| Design Focus | Lightweight everyday bionic arm | Rugged heavy-duty prosthetic |
| Control | Myoelectric muscle signals (MyoPods) | Myoelectric muscle signals (MyoPods) |
| Frame | Lightweight design | Reinforced nylon and titanium |
| Grip Strength | Strong precision grip | Up to 77 lbs lifting capacity |
| Best For | Daily life, work, independence | Manual labor, agriculture, construction |
| Activity Attachments | Compatible with TRS attachments | Compatible with TRS attachments |
A detailed evaluation follows the consultation.
Prosthetists measure muscle signal strength, examine limb health, and review daily routines to determine the best prosthetic design.
Socket design becomes one of the most important parts of the prosthetic arm fitting process. Digital scanning or casting captures the exact shape of the residual limb so the prosthesis fits securely and comfortably.
“There’s something empowering about working with a clinician who understands what a comfortable fit really means,” Lucas said.
Precision during this stage determines how natural the prosthetic arm will feel during everyday use.
“Nothing is off the shelf,” Lucas said. “Everything is shaped around your limb.”
The most important step is that first conversation with a prosthetist. Fill out the form below for a free consultation.
Insurance review often becomes the most complicated stage when learning how to get a prosthetic arm after amputation.
Coverage decisions depend on each insurance provider’s policies and medical documentation requirements. Clinical evaluations, functional goals, and physician recommendations are usually included in the submission.
“Insurance can be the toughest part of the journey,” Lucas said. “I’ve been through enough denials and appeals to last a lifetime.”
Support from a prosthetic team often makes the process easier.
“Our team helps check benefits and prepare the documentation needed to submit the claim,” Lucas said.
Robert, who lost his arm in an accident, focused on mindset during the process. “You cannot control stuff,” he said. “The only thing I have control over is my attitude.”
Does Health Insurance Cover Prosthetics
Does Medicare Cover Prosthetics
Insurance approval leads to the prosthetic fitting stage.
Clinicians attach the custom socket, calibrate muscle sensors, and program grip patterns designed for daily tasks.
Training sessions help users learn how to activate muscle signals and transition between different hand movements.
Modern bionic hands support activities such as typing, cooking, lifting tools, and exercising.
Practice gradually builds confidence and coordination.
Receiving a prosthetic arm brings a mix of excitement and anticipation.
Lucas remembers that moment clearly.
“There’s a mix of nerves and excitement when you finally receive your device,” Lucas said.
Training sessions help users adjust quickly.
“You’re not expected to master it instantly,” Lucas said. “It’s a learning process, but a rewarding one.”
Independence grows as the prosthesis becomes part of everyday routines.
Hero PRO Overview
Hero RGD Bionic Arm
Hero Arm Overview
Does Health Insurance Cover Prosthetics
How Do Prosthetic Arms Work
Get a Hero Arm Consultation
Learning how to get a prosthetic arm begins with a conversation. A prosthetic consultation allows clinicians to evaluate limb health, discuss lifestyle goals, and explain available technology.
“If you’re just beginning this journey, the first step is easy,” Lucas said. “Sign up for a consultation and see what’s possible.”
The timeline varies depending on healing, insurance approval, and customization. Many people begin the process several months after an amputation once the limb stabilizes. We’ve seen patients fitted with a Hero PRO as soon as six months post amputation.
Most prosthetic arms attach using a custom socket and do not require additional surgery.
Myoelectric prosthetic arms detect electrical signals generated by muscle contractions using EMG sensors and translate them into hand movement.
Certified prosthetists and specialized upper-limb clinics provide consultations and fittings. Many clinics offer virtual consultations before scheduling an in-person visit. It all starts here.
Many people ask the same question when they begin researching advanced prosthetic technology. Does Medicare cover prosthetics, including modern bionic arms?
The answer is often yes. Medicare may approve prosthetic devices when they are considered medically necessary and when they are expected to improve daily function.
Many people assume that advanced technology must be paid for out of pocket. In reality, coverage is frequently available when a prosthesis can support independence, restore meaningful daily activity, and reduce long‑term strain on the rest of the body.
A myoelectric prosthesis allows users to open and close the hand using muscle signals from the residual limb. When this technology helps someone perform everyday tasks more efficiently, Medicare may consider the device appropriate for coverage.
If you are considering a bionic arm through Medicare, commercial insurance, or as an upgrade, the most important step is a free conversation with a prosthetist.
Coverage decisions are based on clinical documentation and functional goals.
Your prosthetist and care team will review:
This process is structured and evidence‑based. Certified prosthetists prepare documentation that explains why a specific prosthesis supports long‑term health and independence.
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, prosthetic devices may be covered when they replace a body part and help restore function.
Cost is one of the most common concerns when someone begins exploring a prosthetic arm.
Advanced myoelectric prostheses can cost significantly more than mechanical devices because they include electronic components, sensors, motors, and custom socket systems. These devices are designed to restore functional hand movement and reduce strain on the rest of the body.
When Medicare approves a prosthesis, the program typically covers a large portion of the device and related clinical care. The exact amount depends on several factors:
For many people, supplemental insurance plans help cover the remaining portion of the cost. In some cases, individuals receive a prosthetic arm with little or no out‑of‑pocket expense after coverage is approved.
Because each case is evaluated individually, the best way to understand your potential costs is to speak with a prosthetist who can review your situation and verify your insurance benefits.
Modern bionic hands are far more capable than earlier prosthetic devices. Our Hero PRO is a myoelectric bionic hand designed for real daily activity. The device uses muscle signals to control grip modes that help with tasks such as cooking, lifting objects, and using tools.
Hero PRO can carry up to 57 lbs, includes seven grip modes, and features manual wrist flexion and full rotation for more natural movement.
When this type of prosthesis helps reduce compensatory movement or overuse injuries, Medicare may determine that the device supports long‑term health.
Coverage decisions are based on each insurer’s policy criteria, which vary by plan and may differ from clinical recommendations.
An initial denial does not mean approval is impossible. The appeals process allows clinicians to provide additional documentation explaining the medical need for the device.
Strong clinical documentation can make a significant difference during this stage.
Our prosthetists guide patients through each step of the process, from evaluation to insurance submission and appeals. This support helps ensure the documentation clearly explains the patient’s functional needs.
If you currently use a prosthetic device, including an older myoelectric system, you may qualify for an upgrade.
Medicare may consider replacement when a device has reached the end of its functional lifespan or when a person’s physical needs have changed.
Over time, compensating with one arm can lead to shoulder strain, tendon stress, or back discomfort. A modern prosthesis may redistribute load across the body and support more balanced movement.
If your current device no longer supports your daily activities, it may be worth reviewing newer options.
At 72, Mary explored advanced bionic technology for the first time. Her Hero PRO was approved through Medicare.
She now quilts, rows with improved bilateral coordination, and comfortably uses a fork and knife while eating.
The lightweight design and breathable socket allow her to wear her arm throughout the day.
“Now both shoulder blades are working at the same time,” Mary said. “My back is not bothering me as much already.”
Years of compensating with one arm left Leonard facing shoulder surgery and chronic pain.
After receiving approval for a Hero PRO, he began redistributing tasks across both sides of his body.
The hand’s grip strength and wrist motion allow him to securely hold objects and prepare meals without straining his shoulder.
“This is the first time it feels like both sides of my body can actually work together,” Leonard said.
After decades of relying on one arm, Wade developed persistent shoulder pain.
His Hero PRO was approved through Medicare to help reduce overuse stress and protect long‑term joint health.
“I couldn’t keep doing everything with one hand,” Wade said. “I needed something that could help with the things I do every day.”
If you are considering a bionic arm through Medicare, commercial insurance, or as an upgrade, the most important step is a conversation with a prosthetist. Every situation is different. Your goals, lifestyle, and long‑term health all play a role in determining the right device.
Open Bionics clinics focus exclusively on upper limb prosthetics. Our team guides patients through evaluation, fitting, documentation, insurance submission, and follow‑up care. You can begin with a free virtual consultation or visit your nearest clinic to see and try the technology in person. You do not have to guess whether you qualify. A consultation can help you understand what coverage may be possible and what the next steps look like.
For anyone considering their prosthetic arm options, the question of myoelectric vs body-powered prosthetics is often the first real decision. They work differently, feel different to wear, and are suited to different tasks. Understanding the distinction matters, both clinically and practically.
When comparing myoelectric vs body-powered prosthetics, the key differences come down to control method, physical effort, grip capability, and everyday usability.
Lucas has experienced both body-powered and myoelectric prosthetic arms. Born with a congenital below-elbow upper limb difference, he spent years using body-powered devices before switching to Hero Arm, and more recently, his Hero PRO.
“There was always a sense of separation,” Lucas said about his past body-powered prosthetics. “The cables, the harness, the mechanical clunk every time the hand opened or closed. It worked, but it didn’t feel like me.”
A body-powered prosthetic uses a harness and cable system attached across the shoulders and upper back. When the user moves their shoulder or upper arm, the cable pulls to open or close a hook or mechanical hand. There are no electronics, no battery, and no sensors involved.
For straightforward tasks requiring consistent grip, body-powered devices can be reliable. They are often prescribed early in the rehabilitation pathway as a first prosthetic experience. But the physical demands of the system add up. The harness distributes force across the shoulder and back, which can cause fatigue and long-term compensatory strain. Fine motor tasks are difficult, and the grip is binary: either fully open or fully closed, with little range between.
“It was offered with a heavy body harness most commonly known to be worn by military men,” said Laiken, a Hero Arm user who wore a body-powered device for years after an insurance denial for a myoelectric arm. “It was so heavy and put a strain on the whole body, which seemed so counter-intuitive.”
The social weight was just as significant. “Growing up, the only reason I would wear my prosthetic was to hide my difference,” Laiken said.
John, a Louisiana teen with a congenital limb difference, had a similar experience as a child. He tried a body-powered hook and found it immediately limiting.
“The harness and shoulder movement made everything harder,” John said. “It just felt really limiting.”
Years later, when he researched prosthetic options for a school project, he compared body-powered hooks, aesthetic prosthetics, and myoelectric hands side by side.
“The Hero Arm stood out because it was the most practical and modern,” he said.
A myoelectric prosthetic arm uses electromyography (EMG) sensors placed inside the socket to detect the electrical signals produced when muscles in the residual limb contract. Those signals are amplified and converted into hand movement. There is no harness, no cable pulling across the shoulder, and no external mechanism to operate. The user controls the device through their own muscle activity.
Our Hero Arm is a myoelectric prosthetic available for children as young as age 5, depending on their size. Most new users establish intuitive control within minutes of their first fitting. Sensor placement is mapped to each individual’s strongest muscle signals, and the grip response is proportional: a stronger contraction produces a faster, firmer grip.
For users switching from body-powered devices, the difference in daily experience tends to be immediate.
“Moving to a Hero Arm felt like coming home,” Lucas said about his first myoelectric arm. “I could type, tie laces, or lift a coffee cup with an ease I had never experienced before.”
Richard, who was born with a congenital upper limb difference and had used other devices before the Hero Arm, described the shift in similar terms.
“The Hero Arm is lightweight and the socket is breathable, which makes it comfortable to wear for an entire day, which I couldn’t do with my previous devices,” Richard said. “I’m able to cook, pour drinks, open doors, and complete other tasks with far more ease than I used to. But my new prosthesis hasn’t just brought practical changes. It also has been emotionally liberating.”
Body-powered hooks operate in a single grip pattern. The Hero Arm offers six grip modes: fist, tripod, hook, pinch, index point, and open palm. These are switchable through muscle signals or customized through the Sidekick App.
In practice, that range covers the tasks a single grip pattern cannot. Picking up a glass uses different mechanics than turning a key or typing on a keyboard. The ability to select the right grip for the right task means fewer workarounds and less compensatory strain on the unaffected arm over time.
Sarah, a two-month Hero Arm user, described the relief in simple terms.
“At last I don’t have to chase my bowl around the table, or spill food down my front,” she said.
For users whose daily demands push beyond standard myoelectric function, Open Bionics offers the Hero PRO and Hero RGD.
The Hero PRO closes its fingers more than twice as fast as most competing bionic hands and lifts up to 57 lbs. It is IPX7 water-resistant, charges via USB-C in four hours, and integrates its battery directly into the hand, making it the lightest bionic hand available. Seven grip modes include a precision key grip. The wrist flexes 45 degrees in both directions and rotates 360 degrees manually.
The Hero RGD is designed for physically demanding environments: agriculture, trades, construction, and outdoor work. Its grip closes in 0.4 seconds. It carries up to 77 lbs., and when paired with the Hero Flex socket and MyoPods, the entire system is fully waterproof.
“The first time I tried Hero PRO, it felt natural,” John said. “This was something I could actually use in real life. I can ride a two-wheel bike now. I even hang on a pull-up bar using the hook attachment. And I use a drum attachment for percussion.”
His mother Monica noted a change that went beyond function. “He used to stand always holding his nub and his head kind of down,” she said. “Now you never see him like that anymore.”
One practical argument for body-powered devices was their compatibility with work and activity-specific tools. The Hero PRO addresses this directly. Its USMC-standard wrist connector is compatible with more than 50 Activity Attachments, including work tools, sports grips, and specialist devices, without requiring a socket change.
“You get the intuitive control and comfort of a myoelectric arm and the tool versatility of a body-powered system,” Lucas said. “All without the harness.”
Body-powered prosthetics
Myoelectric prosthetic arms
Which prosthetic arm is right for you? Body-powered devices remain an option for specific scenarios, particularly where simplicity and independence from electronics are priorities. For most people asking the myoelectric vs body-powered question, the capability difference is clear. The more relevant questions are access, clinical fit, and timing.
Robert, who lost his arm in an accident and moved to a myoelectric prosthetic arm within five months, turned down the body-powered device his hospital recommended from day one.
“They said, just get this base model,” Robert said. “As a beginner, just to see if you might like it. I said, no, I am not doing that. I already know that I need something useful.”
Emily Shannon, a certified prosthetist at the Open Bionics Orlando clinic, said that seeking myoelectric care early can make a clinical difference.
“A lot of people think they have to wait a long time after an amputation before they can even start the process,” she said. “But Robert is only five months out and he is already controlling a myoelectric hand and getting a functional socket. More people should know it is not off the table. If you have good healing and good muscle signals, starting early can make a huge difference. It keeps you from forming habits that strain your other arm and it helps you get your life back sooner.”
A consultation with an Open Bionics prosthetist determines whether residual limb length, muscle signal strength, and lifestyle make someone a strong myoelectric candidate. For most below-elbow amputees and those with congenital upper limb differences, the answer is yes.
“For me, switching felt like coming home,” Lucas said. “The arm started to feel like part of me. That is what a prosthetic arm should feel like.”
To find out whether a myoelectric prosthetic arm is the right fit, book a free appointment at the Open Bionics clinic nearest you.
For many people recovering from limb loss, the first weeks after surgery are defined by wound care, medical appointments, and the challenge of relearning daily tasks. A bionic arm can feel like a distant goal when getting through the day takes everything available. Yet for many people with a below-elbow limb loss, three months post amputation is when preparation for a myoelectric prosthetic arm can begin.
The choices you make at the three-month mark can set you up for a stronger and smoother bionic journey.
After an upper limb amputation, the residual limb undergoes significant change. Swelling gradually decreases while the limb settles into a more stable shape. This process typically takes three to six months and plays an important role in prosthetic readiness.
A myoelectric prosthetic socket must match the precise shape of the residual limb. If the limb is still changing significantly, the socket fit will change with it. Prosthetists therefore evaluate healing progress and limb volume stability before beginning the fitting process.
If you are around three months post amputation, this may be the right time to begin discussing your prosthetic options. A free consultation with a certified prosthetist can help determine when fitting may be appropriate and how to prepare your residual limb for the best possible outcome.
A shrinker is a compression garment worn over the residual limb to reduce swelling and help shape the limb for a future prosthetic socket. Wearing a shrinker consistently is one of the most effective ways to prepare the limb for prosthetic fitting.
A myelectric prosthetic arm uses sensors that detect electrical signals created when muscles contract. These signals are translated into hand movement. Strengthening the muscles responsible for wrist flexion and extension helps prepare the body for intuitive control once a device is fitted.
Even small muscle contractions matter during early recovery. These signals become the foundation for controlling a bionic hand.
Occupational therapy during early recovery builds strength, coordination, and confidence. Practicing daily tasks and structured exercises prepares the body for the physical demands of prosthetic use.
Emily Shannon, a certified prosthetist, explained the benefit of starting preparation early. “If healing is progressing well and muscle signals are strong, beginning preparation early can make a significant difference in how quickly someone adapts to a prosthetic arm.”
People who define clear goals early in recovery often progress faster. Goals may include returning to work, cooking, participating in sports, or performing specific tasks independently.
Robert, a Jacksonville business owner who lost his arm in an accident, focused on returning to work and fishing again. His clarity about daily needs helped his clinical team identify the right prosthetic solution.
Week 1–6: Healing and swelling management
Month 2–3: Shrinker use and muscle conditioning
Month 3–6: Prosthetic consultation and preparation
Month 4–8: Definitive prosthetic fitting and training
By three months post amputation, many individuals are ready to begin discussing prosthetic options and planning their fitting pathway.
Many people assume they must wait until full healing before speaking with a prosthetist. In reality, early conversations can help guide recovery and allow insurance approval processes to begin sooner. Speaking with a certified prosthetist can help determine when prosthetic evaluation may begin.
How soon after an amputation can you get a prosthetic arm?
Many people begin the evaluation process within three to six months after surgery once healing and limb stabilization occur.
Can you train for a prosthetic arm before fitting?
Yes. Muscle conditioning, shrinker use, and occupational therapy can begin before the first prosthetic socket is fitted.
What is the typical prosthetic arm timeline after amputation?
Many people begin preparation around three months post amputation, followed by prosthetic fitting once healing and limb stability allow.
Preparing early helps ensure the body, muscles, and mindset are ready for the transition to a bionic arm.
For many people with upper limb differences, the question of where to buy prosthetics is one of the first and most disorienting they face. The path from limb difference to a well-fitted, functional device is rarely straightforward. It involves navigating insurance, understanding funding options, finding a clinic with genuine upper limb expertise, and working out which technology actually suits the life you want to live.
Lucas Slusher, a Hero PRO user who was born with a congenital upper limb difference, spent years working through that process before finding Open Bionics. He remembers the early confusion clearly. “I kept asking myself, where do I even go to buy these arms?” he said. “That mix of hope and feeling overwhelmed is something anyone starting out can relate to.”
The first step for most people searching where to buy prosthetics is an online search that returns more questions than answers. Slusher said his experience with Open Bionics felt different from the start. “It’s not like shopping online,” he said. “You click ‘Book Demo‘ and start with a free, no-pressure call.”
That initial conversation is handled by clinicians who work with people across the full spectrum of upper limb differences, including congenital limb differences and acquired limb loss, more than most providers. They walk prospective patients through whether a Hero Arm, Hero RGD, or Hero PRO is the right fit, based on their daily demands, activity level, and goals. No commitment is required to have that conversation.
Slusher said the first call was a turning point. “For the first time, someone really understood that every limb difference, every story, is unique and personal,” he said.
After the initial consultation, Open Bionics takes a 3D scan or cast of the residual limb and creates a custom-fit device. All Open Bionics devices are designed for below-elbow differences, whether congenital or acquired.
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“For the first time, someone really understood that every limb difference, every story, is unique and personal.”
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The Hero Arm is lightweight and intuitive, available for adults and children as young as five. The Hero PRO and Hero RGD add increased grip strength, speed, and adaptability, and both are completely wireless, water resistant, and touchscreen compatible. The flexible socket design and 3D-printed construction produce a fit that is typically more comfortable than older fabrication methods.
Slusher said comfort is not incidental to consistent prosthetic use. “Comfort isn’t a luxury,” he said. “It’s essential if you want to wear your prosthesis every day, all day.”
For people considering where to buy prosthetics, the question of durability is often as important as the question of fit. The Hero line is built from Nylon PA12, the same material used in ski boots, making it well suited to the physical demands of daily life including wet, messy, and high-contact tasks.
Slusher said the transition to the Hero PRO changed what he expected from a prosthetic device. “I wondered if it would really hold up in everyday life,” he said. “It isn’t just about looking cool. It’s about doing laundry, dishes, typing on your phone, or lifting heavier items without worry. That kind of freedom changed everything for me.”
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“It isn’t just about looking cool. It’s about doing laundry, dishes, typing on your phone, or lifting heavier items without worry. That kind of freedom changed everything for me.”
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Open Bionics operates a growing network of clinics across the United States. For patients who do not have a clinic nearby, the team helps connect them with partner locations and coordinates care remotely where possible. The company is expanding its clinic network, and additional locations continue to come online.
Every Hero PRO and Hero RGD delivered directly through an Open Bionics clinic is backed by the Perfect Fit Promise, a 60-day fit guarantee, and three years of HeroCare coverage. That includes training, customer support, and coverage for manufacturing faults, with no hidden costs.
Slusher said the support structure was as important to him as the technology itself. “What I loved about Open Bionics wasn’t just the technology,” he said. “It was the people. The clinicians who understood limb difference, the community of users, and a company committed to making bionics accessible. I never felt like just a customer.”
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“What I loved about Open Bionics wasn’t just the technology. It was the people. The clinicians who understood limb difference, the community of users, and a company committed to making bionics accessible. I never felt like just a customer.”
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If you are considering Hero PRO or Hero RGD, visit book a free consultation to learn how a bionic arm could help you reach your goals.
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