Beyond the basics, prosthetics are known to be hideously expensive. Components and customization is not cheap -- or, at least, before the increased adoption of 3D printing. 3D printing, together with design and mapping software, allows for the printing of three-dimensional objects which are precise and can be made with a variety of materials -- many of which that are far cheaper than traditional prosthetics material.
There are countless cases of research and projects which combine prosthetics with this type of printing, allowing those who could not afford anything beyond the absolute basics to have a wider variety of movement back within their missing limb.
Emma Lavelle, a young girl born with undeveloped arms, did not have the strength for a traditional exoskeleton which would grant her more movement -- until 3D printing was used to create a lightweight model for her out of plastics. In more recent times, student Troy Baverstock has created a 'smart leg' prosthetic with inbuilt medical sensors, and a global network of volunteers are printing and distributing $30 - $50 wrist and elbow prosthetics for children.
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