The world is built for people with two hands and ten fingers … but it’s getting better.

After losing fingers or hands, texting and typing are both possible, with or without a prosthesis. Many of our patients text us to stay in touch, and some have written articles for us. There’s definitely a learning curve, and while the technology isn’t perfect, it is improving.

For people who have lost the tips of their fingers, it may seem like just an adjustment to type with their shortened fingers. The problem is that sometimes, the ends of residual fingers can be sensitive. Additionally, having to alter one's hand position to type with a smaller finger can result in overuse injuries to the rest of the hand.

Back in 2012, Naked Prosthetics began offering body-powered PIPDrivers, which allowed for protection of the ends of sensitive fingers and offered length (some of our patients call their residual fingers nubs). You can watch PIPDrivers being used to type in the video below:

For those missing more of their finger, the MCPDriver, also by Naked Prosthetics, offers a functional solution. At the end of Kyle's video below is him using them with his smart phone. MCPDrivers and PIPDrivers can be fitted with a conductive tip.

Of course, MCPDrivers can be used for typing as well:

Silicone fingers are also sometimes an option. Watch Mason use hers to play the piano:

There are a few options for people who are missing their hand or part of their arm. Using a prosthesis alone, even a multi-articulating myoelectric hand, isn’t really a viable option. While the hand can go into several types of grips, the technology isn’t there yet to type beyond standard hunt-and-peck.

One option is to learn how to type one-handed. It’s the preferred typing method for many individuals, even when typing with both hands is an option. It’s not necessarily the easiest to learn after years of typing with two hands, but it’s absolutely possible.

Another option is a stylus. This can be useful for people with bilateral amputation.

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The easiest option, though, might be “talk to text”. This option is available through Microsoft Word, Google Drive and most cell phone operating systems. There are also apps available just do an internet search using the term “talk to text”. It’s how our patient Wendi typed up her essay for us to published during Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month in 2023.

What is your favorite technological or everyday tool that helps you get by in this world without the full use of both hands? Please leave us a comment below.

If you or someone you know is researching prosthetic care and would be interested in a complimentary consultation, please contact us. We offer in-person and telehealth consultations. Meeting with our clinical team will tell you all you need to know about your prosthetic options, how we create comfortable and functional prosthetic solutions, and how our in-house occupational therapists teach our patients to use their devices including how to type!

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