A common misconception about finger prosthetics is that they are “cosmetic” only. This could not be further from the truth. When someone suffers the loss of a finger, either partial or complete, function is significantly reduced. Grip strength, grasping small objects, typing and pinching actions are compromised. Everyday tasks that were simple before the injury become challenging. If the finger length is not restored, typing will require unnatural manipulation of the hand to reach the keys. These unnatural movements will affect not only the hand but the wrist, forearm, elbow and shoulder. As someone ages, these movements will lead to arthritic changes, muscular aches and imbalance. The rule in restorative prosthetics is to help the wearer return to using the hand as normally as possible; the closer to pre-injury function, the better. A properly designed and fitted finger prosthesis can make the return to natural function a reality. It is extremely important to restore the natural function of the hand from a biomechanical perspective. A missing fingertip may impact the entire upper extremity over time. As someone ages, the impact is magnified. Today, using some form of keyboard is part of the daily routine. Therefore, it is even more important to return hand function to normal by wearing finger prosthetics.
· Restore functional grip and grasping
· Restore length of finger
· Protect sensitive residual finger from trauma
· Increase circulation in residual finger
· Restore natural appearance of hand
· Increase ability to type normally
· Help wearer avoid unwanted attention to injury
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