onehand

Onehand is a term used to describe use by or design for a single hand. It can refer to people who have one functional hand due to congenital conditions, loss of a hand through injury or amputation, or to objects and techniques that are adapted for one-handed use. The concept encompasses physical ability, assistive technology, and design practices intended to facilitate operation with one hand.

In practice, one-handed use appears in various domains. In sports, athletes may perform one-handed catches, blocks, or finishes, and some strokes or techniques are specifically suited to one hand, such as the one-handed backhand in tennis. In music, composers sometimes write repertoire for one hand, notably for pianists who have limited use of the other hand. In daily life, one-handed tools and interfaces—such as single-handed openers, keyboards, and computer mice—enable independent activity.

Design and technology aimed at one-handed use emphasizes accessibility and ergonomics. Universal design seeks to make products usable with one hand, while assistive devices—prosthetic hands, splints, adapted cutlery, and voice- or eye-controlled interfaces—support independence. Rehabilitation and occupational therapy focus on maximizing function, teaching safe techniques, and integrating devices into routines.

Social considerations include accessibility advocacy, awareness of stigma, and inclusive products that accommodate diverse bodily abilities. See also prosthetics, assistive technology, and universal design.