A British firm is giving new meaning to the phrase, “There’s an app for that.” Touch Bionics has just released an app that allows amputees to make adjustments to prosthetic limbs.
Double amputee uses new app
Jason Koger lost both of his arms in an ATV accident in 2008. He has two bionic arms, equipped with high-tech electronics that allows him to move prosthetic fingers.
Before, when Koger needed the settings adjusted he would fly to a specialist. Now, he can make adjustments himself with an iPhone and a stylus.
“Five years ago, I couldn’t pull my pants up by myself,” said Koger, 34. “Today, I go hunting and do some of the things that I probably never imagined I could have done five years ago.”
The app, called i-limb, allows Koger to program 24 different grip patterns.
War injuries fuel advances
The new app represents one of the latest developments in the ever-changing field of prosthetics. Joe Reda, assistant director of orthotic and prosthetic services at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey, says more prosthetic research is being conducted because of increased amputations caused by war.
“The changes are happening rather rapidly now, and I think it’s because of our wars overseas,” said Reda. “The government is trying to put more money into research and development.”
Costly advances
While the i-limb can provide independence for amputees, the app has a hefty price tag. Some insurance plans might cover it, but it is a fairly new concept and it often takes insurance companies months to approve such advancements. Right now, it’s priced at $100,000. Koger got it for free in exchange for testing it and providing feedback, according to USA Today.
