Electric Wrist Rotation in Proportional-Controlled Systems

The purpose of this study was to define specifically the functional usage of electric wrist rotation (EWR), and assess its value to persons with an amputation wearing proportional-controlled prostheses. Key Points: Survey results of 32 persons with an amputation who were fitted with EWR included data on extent of usage, battery usage, specific tasks performed, and advantages and disadvantages. Conclusions: A strong majority of the wearers surveyed used the EWR effectively, and preferred the component to its absence. Surprisingly, both persons with unilateral and bilateral amputation used the EWR for active rotation and prepositioning. Use of the EWR correlated highly with the extent of usage of the prosthesis that is, those who use their prosthesis extensively also will tend to use electric wrist rotation.