A body-powered prosthesis, sometimes called a conventional prosthesis, is powered and controlled by gross body movements . For some levels of amputation or deficiency an elbow system can be added to provide the patient additional function. There are several advantages associated with a body powered prosthesis. Because of it s simple design, this type of prosthesis is highly durable and can be used for tasks that involve water and dust and in other potentially damaging environments. Many patients who wear a body-powered prosthesis comment that they have increased control due a phenomenon called proprioception .
Proprioception gives the wearer feedback as to the position of the terminal device.
A wearer will know, for example, if the hook is open or closed by how much pressure the harness is exerting on his or her shoulder area without having to look at the terminal device. There is also a reduced maintenance cost for a body-powered prosthesis as most repairs are related to broken control cables, replacement harnesses, and realignment of terminal devices. These types of repairs are all fairly economical when compared to other prosthetic options such as electrically-powered prostheses. There are several disadvantages associated with a body-powered prosthesis that should be noted. The most common complaint that wearers of this type of prosthesis note is the uncomfortable and restrictive control harness.