Zuzana wearing a passive arm prosthesis from Ottobock.
Zuzana wearing a passive arm prosthesis from Ottobock.
Zuzana wearing a passive arm prosthesis from Ottobock.
Finding the right prosthesis

Prosthetic hands and arms for casual users.

It’s not always about the latest bionic technology: Sometimes, you may just want to look normal, feel comfortable, and handle basic daily tasks with ease. If that sounds familiar, keep scrolling for some no-fuss, low-tech options for users just like you.

It’s not always about the latest bionic technology: Sometimes, you may just want to look normal, feel comfortable, and handle basic daily tasks with ease. If that sounds familiar, keep scrolling for some no-fuss, low-tech options for users just like you.

Who’s a casual user?

You love to keep it simple, easy, and natural.

Like many individuals with a hand or arm difference, you may not want or need a high-tech prosthesis for many of your daily activities. Or, if you use a more advanced device for some tasks, there may still be times when you prefer a simpler device that looks as much like a natural hand as possible — and that’s just as easy to clean and care for.

Here’s how to know if you’re a casual user who’ll love having a lightweight, durable, natural-looking option called a passive device:

    Ottobock passive arm prosthesis user working on a laptop.

    You want to look like you’re not wearing a prosthesis

    You have a limb difference, but you don’t want to look different — so you might love a device designed to blend perfectly into your normal everyday appearance.

    You have a limb difference, but you don’t want to look different — so you might love a device designed to blend perfectly into your normal everyday appearance.

    Ottobock passive arm prosthesis user washing hands at a sink.

    You like low-maintenance solutions for your daily tasks

    You’re happy with practical options that are easy to learn and require minimal upkeep. Especially if they can take some wear and tear and wash up in minutes.

    You’re happy with practical options that are easy to learn and require minimal upkeep. Especially if they can take some wear and tear and wash up in minutes.

    Ottobock passive arm prosthesis positioned on a bicycle handle grip.

    Day to day, you only need a couple of grips

    Sometimes, you just want some simple hand functions — not complex grip patterns or advanced control systems. Often, all you need is a device that holds things in place for you.

    Sometimes, you just want some simple hand functions — not complex grip patterns or advanced control systems. Often, all you need is a device that holds things in place for you.

Want more from your prosthetic hand or arm?

Do you spend most of your day doing demanding, hands-on work? Or do your favorite everyday tasks take lots of precise control and exacting finesse? Either way, there are lots of options for users just like you. Pick a different page to check them out.

Passive device options

Just the right support for users who just need the basics.

While they may be functionally simple, passive devices can still be a valuable option to consider — both as a primary device and a secondary one for situations that don’t suit more complex devices.

They can be an especially good choice for users with a limb difference high above their elbow. Having no active functional elements keeps them relatively light, but they still add just enough weight to improve balance and reduce postural problems.

Another important advantage: Passive devices are widely covered by most insurance plans and health systems, making them easily accessible for most people who want to try a prosthetic hand or arm. Below are some popular options to explore.

Below-elbow prosthesis

Passive Hand

Lightweight, durable, and highly realistic, this hand comes in many different sizes that can be precisely matched to your body type — making it a great choice for users who prefer a low-maintenance device that’s as natural-looking as possible. It can be easily combined with a customized prosthetic glove for an even more lifelike appearance.

Ottobock Passive Hand prosthetic device for everyday functional support.
Ottobock Passive Hand prosthetic device for everyday functional support.

And your socket? That’s where an expert comes in.

Your socket serves as the crucial connection between your residual limb and your new prosthetic hand or arm. Since every user’s body is unique, this component is almost always custom-fabricated by your prosthetist to precisely match your limb.

This personalized design is key to a secure and comfortable fit, providing you with optimal control and confidence — so trust that skilled mobility expert to craft the ideal socket for your hand or arm.

Prosthetic hands and arms for casual users - And your socket? (HQ)

What to know about insurance, health systems & prosthetic devices.

While passive devices are usually covered by most insurance plans and healthcare systems, it’s important to understand how your coverage may impact your options. Click below for more details on typical payment methods, your potential insurance coverage, and the payment process for prostheses.

Prosthetic hands and arms for casual users - What to know about insurance, health systems & prosthetic devices (HQ)
User story

Zuzana and her family are always on the move.

A teacher with two young sons, Zuzana’s days are full of non-stop activity — from classroom lessons to family climbing adventures, soccer matches, bike rides, and more. That’s why she typically uses a passive silicon hand: If her device gets dirty, she can clean it off in minutes.

She also loves that her hand is both practical and visually appealing. It gives her the complete, natural look she prefers, while also providing useful support and counterbalance for many of her everyday tasks.

Prosthetic hands and arms for casual users - User story (HQ)
Prosthetic hands and arms for casual users - User story (HQ)
Get in touch

We’re here to help you find the best possible options.

Submit the form below if you’d like to learn more about recommended prosthesis combinations, have questions about reimbursement, or would like to connect with a prosthetics professional who can evaluate your specific situation.