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Background: Innovation in prosthetic devices for adults with upper limb loss is necessary to meet the demand for effective devices to optimize participation in daily activity. We evaluate the SoftHand Pro (SHP) as a terminal device to determine the application of this biologically-inspired prosthetic hand for use for a person with transradial limb deficiency. Method: This case study describes and measures the first use of the SHP by an individual with transradial limb deficiency in their home environment. This paper reports the features and functionality of the SHP prototype and provides recommendations for changes to further optimize function. Results: The participant found the simple mechanics, durability, and ease of use of the SHP to be beneficial. She praised the SHP’s positive impact on quality of life and suggested areas for optimization. Objective assessments of dexterity and function showed improvements. Conclusion: Using a biologically-inspired myoelectric hand provides an opportunity for intuitively controlled grasp of common large and small objects. The simplicity of use and the lightweight, durable design of the SHP has the potential to provide a positive impact on quality of life, and this case study has provided valuable feedback to further improve the hand and enable larger at-home trials.

Upper-limb impairments are all-pervasive in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). As a consequence, people affected by a loss of arm function must endure severe limitations. To compensate for the lack of a functional arm and hand, we developed a wearable system that combines different assistive technologies including sensing, haptics, orthotics and robotics. The result is a device that helps lifting the forearm by means of a passive exoskeleton and improves the grasping ability of the impaired hand by employing a wearable robotic supernumerary finger. A pilot study involving 3 patients, which was conducted to test the capability of the device to assist in performing ADLs, confirmed its usefulness and serves as a first step in the investigation of novel paradigms for robotic assistance.