Myoelectric Prosthesis
Pronunciation: my-oh-ee-LEK-trik
An electrically powered prosthetic device that uses electromyographic signals from residual limb muscles to control movement.
Full Definition
A myoelectric prosthesis is an upper-limb prosthetic device that translates electromyographic (EMG) signals — generated by the contraction of residual muscles in the residual limb — into powered movement of the prosthetic hand or arm. Surface electrodes within the prosthetic socket detect these signals and activate motors accordingly. Myoelectric prostheses are documented extensively in rehabilitation engineering literature, clinical outcome studies, and device prescription forms. Editors should note the correct hyphenation: 'myoelectric,' not 'myo-electric' or 'myo electric,' and should distinguish it from body-powered prostheses.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word: 'myoelectric.' Do not hyphenate. Distinguish clearly from 'body-powered prosthesis,' which uses cables and harnesses rather than electric motors.
In Context
- "The outcomes study compared grip strength and dexterity between users of myoelectric prostheses and body-powered devices." — Peer-reviewed clinical outcomes study
- "The product brochure incorrectly hyphenated 'myo-electric'; the editor corrected it to 'myoelectric' per standard clinical usage." — Medical device marketing material