Impact of prostheses on function and quality of life for children with unilateral congenital below-the-elbow deficiency.

Background: Children with unilateral congenital below-the-elbow deficiency present a dilemma to clinicians. Parents want the child to have a prosthesis and, because it seems that the deficiency will cause functional problems, one is customarily prescribed for infants. Use of the prosthesis is then encouraged throughout childhood.