Myoelectric Camp: An Interdisclplinary Approach To Fitting Myoelectric Prostheses

Abstract

The Philadelphia Unit of Shriners Hospitals has developed an interdisciplinary plan forproviding 5-10 year olds with a comprehensive introduction to myoelectric fittings. The program utilizes a summer camp format for service delivery The initial camp was conducted as part of a research study in 1984. The Philadelphia Unit investigated the viability and cost effectiveness of providing myoelectric prostheses to adolescents. Since that time, the age for fitting myoelectrics through the camp program has been progressively expanded to include children as young as five years. The primary goal of the camp is to provide the participants with a diversified, fun and fundamentally complete myoelectric experience. The Myoelectric Camp format allows therapeutic treatment of all eligible candidates in a manner which otherwise would not be possible through individual out-patient appointments in our setting.