Upper limb prosthetics, DHA Karachi
Above elbow and shoulder arms, planned around what you will really use
The higher the amputation, the more an arm weighs and the less it can do, so honesty matters most here. We explain what each option can and cannot do, keep the arm as light as possible, and build it around the tasks that matter to you.
- Free assessment
- Test socket first
- Answered 24/7
Clinically reviewed by Ummad Shafique Mughal, Consultant Orthotist and ProsthetistUpdated 6 October 2026
Higher arm levels
How an above elbow or shoulder arm works
An above elbow prosthesis replaces the elbow, forearm and hand when the amputation is through the upper arm. A shoulder prosthesis is for amputations at or near the shoulder, where the socket sits over the shoulder and chest.
Both need an elbow joint that bends and locks. Body-powered versions use a harness and cable; cosmetic versions are lighter and mostly for balance and appearance. Prices start from Rs 220,000 and rise with powered elbows and hands.
Expectations
What these arms do well, and their limits
We would rather you know the limits now than leave the arm in a cupboard later.
They help with
- Balance and postureEven a light cosmetic arm helps your shoulders sit level and your clothes hang evenly.
- Holding and steadyingHolding a bag, a document or a plate while the other hand works.
- Two-handed tasksCarrying a tray, steadying a box, opening a jar with practice.
- Confidence in publicA natural-looking arm at work, weddings and family gatherings.
They struggle with
- Heavy liftingThe arm and harness are not built for heavy loads; your other arm still leads.
- Fine, fast tasksOperating the elbow and hook in sequence takes time and practice.
- Long wear in heatThe socket covers more skin; summer wear needs breaks and good liners.
Inside the arm
The parts of an above elbow or shoulder arm
Every gram counts at these levels, so we choose the lightest parts that do the job.
Holds the upper arm, or for shoulder levels the shoulder and chest, cast and tested in clear plastic.
Made by usSpreads the weight across the opposite shoulder and powers the elbow and hook.
Adjusted for comfortBends and locks in several positions; body-powered or, at higher cost, powered.
The biggest single partTurns the hand and lets you swap the hook for a hand.
Quick-change optionsA passive hand, a working hand or a split hook.
Hooks are lightestA light cover so sleeves hang naturally.
Optional
Prices for 2026
Ways to build an above elbow or shoulder arm
Indicative ranges. Powered elbows and multi-grip hands are quoted separately because their prices vary widely.
| Build | What you get | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic arm | A light socket, a passive elbow and a silicone hand, for balance and appearance. | Rs 220,000 to 450,000 |
| Body-powered arm | Harness, cable-locking elbow and a hook or working hand. | Rs 300,000 to 900,000 |
| Shoulder level or hybrid | Frame socket for shoulder levels, or a body-powered elbow with a powered hand. | Rs 450,000 to 1,200,000+ |
We often suggest starting with a lighter arm and adding function later, once you know how you use it. See every level in the price guide.
Your visits
How an above elbow or shoulder fitting usually runs
Expect more training than for a below elbow arm.
- First callLevel, date of surgery and the tasks that matter to you.
Day 1
- Assessment and castShoulder movement and strength, then the cast.
Week 1
- Test socketA clear socket with a trial harness to check comfort and reach.
Week 2
- Second check if neededShoulder sockets often need one more fitting.
Weeks 2 to 3
- Final armElbow and hand fitted, harness set for smooth control.
Weeks 3 to 4
- TrainingLocking the elbow, opening the hook, then two-handed tasks.
Weeks 4 to 8
Control comes with practice. Most people find the order of moves becomes automatic within a few weeks.
In the clinic
Building a higher level arm
Daily life
Day to day with a higher level arm
Comfort and routine decide how often the arm is worn.
A few hours at a time with breaks is better in summer than one long day.
Check the skin under the strap and at the socket edge each evening.
Sleeve on the prosthesis first, then the other arm. We show you easy ways with a kurta and a shirt.
Protect your other shoulder and wrist: they do more work now, so pace heavy tasks.
See your doctor first if
- The wound or scar is open, weeping or smells
- There is new redness, heat or swelling around the shoulder
- You have severe pain in the shoulder or neck
- You have a fever or feel unwell
- Your shoulder movement is getting worse instead of better
Shoulder stiffness after surgery is common; physiotherapy before fitting makes the arm far easier to use.
Questions
Above elbow and shoulder questions
Ask anything else on WhatsApp or call +92 337 8414002, day or night.
How much does an above elbow prosthesis cost in Pakistan?
A cosmetic above elbow arm starts from Rs 220,000. Body-powered arms usually cost Rs 300,000 to 900,000, and shoulder level or hybrid arms start from about Rs 450,000. Powered elbows cost more and are quoted separately.
Is a shoulder prosthesis worth it?
For many people, yes, mainly for balance, posture and appearance. A light cosmetic arm is often worn more than a heavy functional one at this level.
How does the elbow lock?
In a body-powered arm, a small shoulder movement pulls a cable that locks or unlocks the elbow. The same cable then opens the hook once the elbow is locked.
Is it heavy?
It weighs more than a below elbow arm. We keep it as light as possible and set the harness so the weight spreads across your shoulders.
Can I get a powered elbow?
Powered elbows exist but cost a great deal and need charging and servicing. We discuss them honestly if they suit your life.
How long does training take?
Usually several weeks. Locking the elbow and using the hook in sequence becomes automatic with practice.
Related
Other limbs and help you may need
Talk to the clinic
Plan a higher level arm with us
Call or WhatsApp and tell us the level and what you want the arm to help with. We will tell you what is realistic before anything is made.