Is a prosthetic arm customized PRADA? A critical perspective on the social aspects of prosthetic arms

Abstract

The development of prosthetic arms has progressed dramatically over the last 100 years, from simple tools made of wood to arms that virtually imitate their biological counterparts. Investment in the development of prosthetic arms has also increased sharply, but the practicality of these arms is questionable. Prosthetic arms now cost between $5000 for a simpler type and over $100,000 for a neuro-prosthetic model in the United States. Considering that consumers of this technology are people with disabilities who are often vulnerable to poverty, such prices are at odds with the principle of maximum help and assistance to people with disabilities. In this article we call for the attention of governments and policy-makers, both in developing and developed countries, to consider social and policy barriers to developing and distributing prosthetic arms and to enact equal entitlement to prosthetic use despite one’s socioeconomic status.