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Orthopedics/Prosthesis


Question

Why is it that children with CdLS do not seem to adapt to wearing prosthesis? Our little girl has upper limb differences. Her arm stops at the elbow and she has a proximal thumb. We have read about orthopedic arms and hands and were considering fitting her at a very early age with myoelectric prosthetic arms and hands. Our idea is to hopefully get her used to using such tools as a prosthetic arm and hand and also letting her use her own arm and thumb.

Answer of our experts

This is an excellent question and a difficult one to answer. My experience has been that even when attempted to fit the individual from an early age and with a very intense training, the child usually ends up not preferring the orthotics. To add to all the possibilities identified by the parents, we have to add that many of the children have tactile systems that are too sensitive and on 'alert', making it very difficult to have the child trained to accept the orthotics. I hope that parents have a chance to give it some serious thought

MC/ TK 7-13-10

Children with CdLS seem to use a single digital (and often the feet) very adeptly and may not perceive the benefit for anything additional

TK 7-13-10

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Find other pages that share the same topic as this page Upper limb abnormalities:3 The musculoskeletal system

Recommendation(s)

Upper limb abnormalities:

R43
As function is often remarkably good in major limb anomalies, caution is recommended regarding surgical procedures in individuals with CdLS.
R44
Prosthetic devices targeting a single function should be considered depending on the needs and tolerance in individuals with CdLS.
R45
Prognosis regarding development and mobility should be taken into account when considering treatment of musculoskeletal problems in individuals with CdLS.

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