The Evolution of an Upper Limb Prosthetic User: Joe’s Journey

“At the same time, Rob and I were working on my actual, functional prosthesis. I was fit with iDigits, just on one side, though [seen in the image at the top of this article]. This is the prosthesis that allowed me more independence and dignity to start working — I began teaching for Texas A&M, Texas Engineering Extension Service. I'm what's called an adjunct instructor, so I travel around one of the larger regions in Texas, teaching fire-related, incident command and fire service classes — just last week, I was in Dallas teaching a bunch of police officers. So the prosthesis allows me to do what I need to do, set up my PowerPoints, use the clicker, write and take notes when I need to.

“The device also helps me feel more comfortable and confident. When we’re going out to dinner, I’d rather wear the prosthesis. I’ve noticed that, even when I’m clearly capable of doing the thing I’m doing, people will offer help when I’m not wearing the prosthesis. But if I’m wearing it, the response is less an offer of help and more, ‘Hey, that’s cool.’ People want to know how it works. I live in a small community, so a lot of people know me. It doesn’t bother me when people are curious, though. My wife has been way, way supportive. I mean, I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for her. She pushed me to not be self-conscious of my injuries and to move forward.”

Once Joe had a good idea of how to use his iDigits, he was fit with two activity-specific devices. The terminal devices are created by a company called TAD and allow Joe to do all his own yardwork. "I push mow my yard, I use the weed-eater, the hedge trimmer. I garden, so I use the prostheses to hold my gardening tools, shovels. I can work on furniture.” When we spoke with Joe he was on his way out to West Texas to do some work on his parents’ house, which is now his. “My wife and I, we like to get away for some rest and relaxation, but there’s still work to be done out there.” In addition to those devices, he also has a custom-built device. Rob, his prosthetist, told us: “It’s a custom-made carbon cuff that wraps around an electric grinder and attaches directly to a TAD Palmer N-Abler quick disconnect unit [seen below]. We made this by taking an impression of the grinder and custom making the carbon wrap. It was a fun project!”