On Florida International University Week: How do we transform the lives of children with upper-limb deficiencies?
Amanda Thomas, clinical assistant professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, examines this challenge.
Dr. Amanda Thomas has been a full-time Clinical Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Florida International University (FIU) for 6 years, focusing on shaping the future of physical therapy through education, research, and clinical expertise. As a licensed physical therapist, Dr. Thomas is deeply committed to providing high-quality care, particularly for children, and ensuring that students are well-prepared for their careers in the field. After earning her degree at FIU, Dr. Thomas worked as a clinical specialist at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she refined their skills in pediatric care. A significant portion of her research revolves around integrating innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, into physical therapy practice and education. Dr. Thomas has incorporated 3D printing into the DPT curriculum, providing students with opportunities to create customized assistive devices for pediatric patients, which has had a profound impact on patient care. This work has earned recognition, including the FPTA 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award and the 2024 RETI Award for Excellence in Teaching at FIU, as well as the development of the world’s first rehabilitation protocol for using a 3D-printed hand in pediatric patients, featured in FIU’s 2025 Research Magazine.
Beyond teaching, Dr. Thomas mentors’ students through collaborations with TOM Global, FIU’s MBUS, and the iSTAR Center, offering hands-on projects that integrate emerging technologies. Her research, including publications on pediatric prosthetics and the attitudes of physical therapy students toward physical activity, continues to advance the field. Dr. Thomas has presented at prestigious conferences, such as the APTA Combined Sections Meeting and FPTA Annual Conference, discussing topics like 3D-printed orthotics and pediatric prosthetics. Ongoing projects include investigating the integration of 3D printing into the DPT curriculum, creating adaptive devices for pediatric patients with limb deficiencies, and exploring student perceptions of reflection-based learning.
Transforming Children’s Lives With 3D-Printed Prosthetics
Each year, about 1,500 babies in the U.S. are born with upper limb deficiencies. Prosthetic devices can help, but they are expensive – often thousands of dollars. And because children grow quickly, they may need new ones every year or two.
That’s where 3D printing comes in, with the development of a low-cost, kid-sized prosthetic – costing as little as $30. My own son, who was born without a right hand, now uses one of these bright yellow 3D-printed prosthetics. It’s helped him do everyday activities, from turning pages to throwing a tennis ball, while boosting his confidence and independence.
But a prosthetic is just the first step. Many children also experience hypersensitivity around their limb, which can make them reluctant to use prosthetics. To address this, my students and I created an at-home rehabilitation program. Using simple household items like Play-Doh and rice, kids strengthen and desensitize their limbs while learning how to use the 3D-printed hand.
We tested the program with my son and other children. After four weeks, we saw measurable gains. Strength improved in nearly every movement, coordination scores increased by more than 70 percent, and range of motion in the wrist and forearm expanded by 5 to 20 degrees. Parents also reported reduced sensitivity and greater ease in daily tasks, from opening jars to brushing teeth. More importantly, the children were excited to use their prosthetics. One proudly showed his new hand at school for “Show and Tell.”
Our research demonstrates that affordable 3D-printed prosthetics and simple home exercises can offer a pathway to personalized care for families who might otherwise be priced out.
Read More:
[Journal of Hand Therapy] – A rehabilitation protocol for the use of a 3D-printed prosthetic hand in pediatrics: A case report
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[FIU News] – Physical therapist mom devises game-changing upper-limb treatment for son
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