Author: Linus Månsson

Our Guide to Preparing For Life With a Prosthesis – What to Know

After amputation, a new life awaits those who have lost one or more of their limbs. When you lose a part of our body, a prosthesis becomes your new extension. There’s no denying that the transitional period can be difficult for many. If you’ve recently lost a limb, it’s crucial to prepare for the day you’ll be fitted for a prosthesis. Preparation is key and is crucial to the periods both before and after surgery. 

Although much of the preparation is mental, there are still a few other things you’ll have to do to ready yourself for your prosthesis. Here are a few things you should know:

The Planning Process

The planning process requires the coordination of a surgeon, a prosthetist, and a physical therapist. The surgeon will perform the actual amputation while the prosthetist will design, fit, build, and adjust the prosthesis. During the entire process, your physical therapist will be by your side, assisting you in doing exercises before and after the surgery. He or she will also help you learn to use the prosthesis when the time comes.

It’s important for your team to discuss things with you beforehand so the amputation and rehabilitation process goes as smoothly as possible.

Exercising Before and After Surgery

You will need to exercise before and after your amputation. The goal is to increase muscle strength and flexibility because the more strong and flexible you are, the easier it will be for you to adjust to life with a prosthesis. 

Physical therapist-prescribed exercises can also help reduce swelling in the residual limb, while also preventing the tissues in the residual limb from shortening. In most cases, the exercises you have to do will depend on the type of amputation that was performed.

Preparing For Your Prosthesis After Surgery

A prosthesis can be worn soon after the surgery while your residual limb heals. Such a device can also be fit for long-term use when there is reduced swelling in the limb. 

A shrinker or an elastic bandage should be worn over the residual limb while there is still swelling. The compression helps to increase circulation and ease pain, reducing the symptoms of phantom limb.

Preparatory and Permanent Prosthesis

Once the swelling in your residual limb goes down, you may get fitted for a temporary prosthesis. This prosthesis is typically lightweight and easy to use, which is why some experts think it helps people learn to use a permanent prosthesis faster. 

Later on, this prosthesis is replaced with a permanent prosthesis, one that has higher-quality components. Alternatively, patients can choose to use a prosthesis with permanent components, but with a temporary socket and frame.

Using a Prosthesis 

When the prosthesis is delivered, you will then be taught the basics of using the prosthesis, which will include the following:

  • How to put the prosthesis on
  • How to take it off
  • How to walk with it
  • How to care for the skin of the residual limb and the prosthesis

Your physical therapist and occupational therapist will likely be the ones helping you to grow accustomed to life with a prosthesis. Their help will be invaluable for learning how to care for your prosthetic and residual limb.

Rehabilitation

Learning how to use a prosthetic is just the beginning of the recovery process. Amputees also need to undergo rehabilitation for amputation. This is coordinated by an occupational or physical therapist, along with the prosthetist.

The rehabilitation process itself entails different exercises designed to strengthen your muscles and maintain flexibility in the residual limb. Your team of professionals will also teach you how to use the prosthesis and assist you in your daily activities. Along with this is counselling or psychotherapy, which will help round out your care and make it easier to come to terms with the loss of your limb and life with a prosthetic.

Adjusting to life with a prosthesis can be difficult, but preparation truly is key. With our guide, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect, which will hopefully ease your anxieties and help you approach recovery with confidence. 

Are you looking for a high-quality foot prosthesis? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Visit Lindhe Extend for all your foot prosthesis needs today.

Our Guide to Technology Advancements in Prosthetics – What to Know

The use of advanced prosthetics today has overshadowed its interesting history. You’ll be surprised to know that prosthetics, despite its advancements, dates way back when the use of technology was still limited. 

The History of Prosthetics

According to history, the use of artificial limbs was found in Egypt because they had a tradition of creating limbs for mummified corpses who had missing body parts. They do this to make the dead look “whole” in the next life. 

The earliest discovery of prosthetics was around 3,000 years ago when archaeologists found the remains of a high-born woman with a wooden prosthetic toe that was attached to the woman’s foot by a leather strap. After undergoing further examinations, results show that the prosthetic toe was used in the woman’s daily life due to its apparent worn out spots. 

One hundred years ago, another proof of the use of prosthetics was unearthed again in Egypt, where it was made from plaster, linen, and glue. 

The Innovation in Prosthetics

It was in the early 1500s when the innovation in prosthetics took place. Ambroise Paré, a French surgeon, started to create prosthetics that mimic leg and arm movements. Eventually, the Civil War and other wars created a massive demand for prosthetics due to the high-record numbers of amputations. James Hanger, an American soldier, and one of the first amputees of the war created a prosthetic leg that features hinges in the knee and ankles. 

After World War I, the Walter Reed Army Hospital in the US created a huge number of artificial limbs to accommodate the returning wounded soldiers. When World War II rolled around, the UK made its mark in the world of prosthetics when the Queen Mary’s Hospital, became a place for artificial limbs in 1939. It was during World War II when the suction sock was introduced, which was built for above-knee prosthetics. 

Prosthetics Today

Advancements in technology now take prosthetics closer to fully replicating the full function of a human limb. Today, there are microprocessor knees that let prosthetics quickly adapt to their environments. There are also the blade prostheses that enable the wearer to sprint. 

Nowadays, prosthetics have better aesthetics, thanks to William Root, who created prosthetics with the use of titanium that allowed him to create intricate and unique designs for each person. Bionic arms are being created as well, and it features muscle sensors that are connected to the skin that will let for effective use of the limb. 

Prosthetics, in today’s context feature nerve detectors that control it. It operates through spinal motor neurons that allow for enhanced command sensor detection. This allows the user to think that they are actually moving the limb. 

Prosthetics have dramatically progressed in recent years. Now, prosthetics are highly-functioning, and, with the rate it’s going, it won’t come as a surprise if it operates as a real limb in the years to come. 

The advancements in prosthetics have also paved the way for more types to choose from in the market, especially for individuals who are keen on participating in sports activities. 

If you are looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

Our Guide to Using an Artificial Limb – How to Return to Your Optimal Self

A new life awaits someone who has had an amputation. The idea of having a limb loss and navigating through life may seem a bit scary. It may inevitably come with a lot of challenges and complicated emotions. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be hard and struggling. With the right prosthesis and support system, you can simply bounce back to your optimal self with an artificial limb. 

For your guide and reference, here’s how to return to your normal self with the use of an artificial limb.

Artificial limb in a nutshell

A prosthesis is an artificial device meant to replace a missing body part, which may be lost through trauma, disease, or a condition present at birth. Prosthetic devices are specifically designed to assist patients in their everyday lives. They are custom made for each patient to create and achieve a comfortable fit. 

An artificial limb is a form of prosthetic devices. There is a wide range of artificial limbs created and designed, specific to patient types. They are typically built from strong, durable, and lightweight materials. These materials include carbon fibre, acrylic resin, silicone, thermoplastics, aluminium, or titanium. The purpose of an artificial limb is to facilitate the movement of a patient while still supporting the body weight.

How to transition to life with an artificial limb

The initial step that amputees take to acquire the right prosthetic device is to look for the prosthetist who can assist them. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Looking for a prosthetist: Make sure to research and look for a qualified prosthetist who knows your needs and understands your situation. This is because you will be working with the prosthetist for the rest of your life—from assessing your residual limb to getting the best artificial limb for you to assisting you even after your prosthesis has been attached.
  • Dealing with your prosthesis: Make sure to decide on the perfect fit for your artificial limb. Your prosthesis can offer you maximum independence by emulating what your natural limb does. With the right prosthesis, you can regain partial or full mobility, go back to work, do what you love to do, and bring back your self-worth.

How to find the right support

It’s worth knowing that regaining mobility and your whole life doesn’t happen overnight. It takes a collaborative effort of all the people that surround you—from your family to your prosthetist down to your support system. Consider having the following:

  • Support system: Know that your family and friends are your first support system. They will help you through recovery until you regain your independence. 
  • Peer support: It’s best to have peer support with individuals who can relate with you. It can be immensely helpful to talk to someone who shares your experiences. Fellow amputees can offer firsthand insights and be there for you. Overall, peer support is an essential part of recovery.
  • Prosthetist support: Your prosthetist will play a pivotal role in your recovery. Make sure to bring out to your prosthetist any concerns. Even if you are having emotional difficulties, talk to them, and ask how they can help. 

Final words

With the right artificial limb and the support system, you can surely rise above the situation. But all these boil down to you as the amputee. Never allow the loss of a limb to limit you by being resilient and doing what you love the most. For all you know, a great life still awaits you!

If you are looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

Our Guide to Microprocessor Controlled Prosthetic & How it Works

From wooden legs to high-tech prostheses thanks to state-of-the-art resources, technology continues to revolutionize the development of prosthetic devices. It continues to evolve as applied science continues to evolve by the year, enriching the lives of amputees with the rise of computer-aided prosthetics. 

One of the most anticipated is the microprocessor-controlled prosthetics, a so-called “smart” version of prostheses. The device aims to improve mobility, reduce risks of falls, and overall enhance the quality of life for its wearers. 

How Microprocessor Technology Works 

Computerized prosthetics are built with a microprocessor, software, sensors, a hydraulic, pneumatic resistance system, and a battery. All the components worth in conjunction to enhance the amputee’s stability. Detecting environmental changes, for instance, is now possible due to the sensor monitors. 

It can evaluate different surfaces and speeds, which automatically adjusts the resistance to the bending and extension of the knee. This feedback calibrates the walking speed suitable for the terrain. With this feature, the wearer can quickly recover from any stumbles and have better control over their movements. 

Microprocessor Technology Promotes a New Level of Independence 

Microprocessor-controlled prosthetics opens up new opportunities for amputees as it gives them control over their swing and stance phases. With the ability to walk faster, slower, or go down and up the stairs with a natural gait, the wearers can enjoy a new level of independence. 

The feedback goes through multiple sensors 100 times a second, which means you can make adjustments with your next step in real-time. This recreates a controllable free-swinging motion with reliable stability with each move you make. It features the following benefits: 

  1. Stumble Recovery 

The revolutionary motor sensors inside the prosthetics can detect movements in real-time, which means it can sense if you’re in a high-risk position. For instance, if you’re about to trip, the microprocessor-controlled prostheses will harden up to act as support. This allows you to recover quickly, while the prostheses will normalize once it detects you’re back in a secure stance. 

  1. Extra Durability and Anti-Slip Features

Microprocessor-controlled prosthetic devices are built with a hard exterior to protect the hardware from environmental risks like scratches or dents. It also has an anti-slip feature to enhance the wearer’s stability when kneeling, all while improving user experience as the prostheses is easy to put on and take off. 

Microprocessor Technology as a Cutting Edge Solution

Microprocessor technology is a revolutionary step towards biological systems as it enhances the lives of amputees like never before. For one, the microprocessors are customizable, which means patients can fine-tune the device to match their natural gait. 

It also boasts of other features that help amputees adjust their walking speed along with a secure controlled recline for sitting positions. 

In Conclusion 

Microprocessor technology achieves a prosthetic milestone as it promotes a reliable and smooth interaction between the mechanics, electronics, and the user. With this advancement, amputees can reap the benefits of dynamic motors as they can adjust movements, normalize their gait, and achieve stability with the help of real-time electronics and high-resolution sensors. 

If you are looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

2 Prosthetic Options for Athletes & Fitness Hobbyists – What to Know

The evolution of bionic devices ensures that sport-specific versions of prosthetics are available regardless of the type and need. Therefore, there is a specialized prosthetic that will help you perform better no matter what sport you play. 

Athletes can review several options for upper limb, knee, and foot prosthetics, which are appropriate for amputees and those requiring customized support. These prosthetic devices can help those who participate in sports, such as athletics, golf, cycling, hockey, fishing, and baseball.

Competitive prosthetics

The iLimb is one of the more fascinating prosthetic advancements for competitive athletes. It’s a bionic hand that allows finger and thumb movements to aid in a range of grips. This prosthetic is controllable via a mobile app that connects to the artificial hand.

Meanwhile, a microprocessor controls the Rheo Knee to stabilize movement, especially on challenging terrain. This prosthetic device also makes it easier for the individual to perform complicated motions like moving backwards and squat-to-standing movements.

Likewise, the Symbionic Leg is another prosthetic apparatus that combines microprocessors in the knee and ankle joints. This sports technology helps the athlete gain better stability and quick recovery after stumbling and also provides symmetry with the other leg. Other prosthetics for athletics include the Power Knee and the Proprio Foot, to name a few.

The Power Knee is the world’s first motorized prosthetic knee. It functions as an integrated extension of its user while using battery-powered capabilities to deal with asymmetrical movement and lost muscle capability. This ingenious device also has AI systems and motion sensors that help it adapt to the user’s walking style.

The Proprio Foot, on the other hand, is an adaptive ankle for moderately-active amputees. It has a dynamic carbon foot blade that adapts to the terrain and increases toe clearance in every swing. Proprio has three levels and has an accompanying app for iOS devices.

Cutting-edge prosthetics

Competitive athletes and fitness-minded hobbyists can take advantage of the benefits that come with sports prosthetics. One of these technological advancements is the carbon fibre blade for below-the-knee amputees. While there are fibre blades for casual walkers, there is a different version of which is meant for short-distance running. The latter features a curved shape that flexes every time the runner needs to push off from the ground.

Meanwhile, above-the-knee amputees use a combination of knee and foot sports prosthetics that remain durable even in slippery conditions and rugged terrains. It has adjustable ankles and shock absorbers depending on the athlete’s preference. There’s also the Moto Knee with hydraulic dampening for adjustments to different speeds. This high-impact device has interchangeable parts for varying motions.

Find the suitable prosthetic

Since sports prosthetics are not ideal for everyday use, you can seek the advice of your physician to pair the right devices for your specific needs. Without a doubt, modern technology gave rise to sports prosthetics that establish an equal playing field. However, if you want the latest prosthetics in the market, check out what Lindhe Xtend has to offer.

Found by swimmer and triple-amputee Christoffer Lindhe, they offer the Xtend Foot that adapts to various terrains and the Xtend Connect, which allows the user to disconnect their prothesis to dress comfortably. You can also purchase the Xtend Cover to protect the prosthetic and the Xtend Testrig that makes you comfortable walking in various terrain. 

If you are looking for foot prosthesis solutions for athletes and fitness hobbyists, get in touch with us to see how we can help.

The Advancement of Prosthetic Limb Developments in 2019 – What to Know

The production and improvement of prosthetic limbs are one of the biggest challenges in healthcare as engineers try to match nature. It aims to fulfil the same function as a natural part of the body, but even after centuries of development, the road to bionic limbs still fall short in functionality. Nevertheless, the future is bright as technology is changing the shape of prosthetics bit by bit.

Advances in technology are improving industries and the lives of many in various forms. Part of its significant improvement is seen in prosthetic limbs, where many are steadily breaking free from the limitations of basic attachments back in the day. In recent years, and in future predictions, artificial limbs are incorporating technologies that enhance the limb’s movement.

What Do Prosthetic Limbs Look Like Today?

Prosthetic limbs were once a tool to restore the appearance and function of an amputee’s missing limb. While it did not bring back full motion and the sense of touch, there were sport-specific prostheses that enabled amputees to continue their way of life. The designs were also made to enhance performance and reduce any risk of injury, which is why prosthesis plays a significant role in managing mobility.  

Its advancement through the years are significant, which is seen in one of the first revolutionary prosthetic designs back in the 1990s. Released in the United States, a microprocessor-controlled joint prosthetics revolutionized its entire function as it can now automatically adapt to an amputee’s unique needs.

For instance, utilizing a microprocessor-controlled joint for the legs can encourage the artificial limb to mimic the person’s specific walking patterns, increasing mobility and natural leg movement overall.  Advances in materials have also improved the design of prosthetic limbs, making the material lighter in weight and providing more skin-like coverings for a more natural finish. To the untrained eye, most prosthetic limbs are hard to distinguish from natural arms and legs.

Advances in Prosthetic Limbs and What to Expect in the Future

Prosthetics in recent years are more comfortable and highly-engineered like never before, but its production is moving at an electric pace with the rise of neuroprosthetics. This introduction has turned brain-controlled prosthetics as an essential field of research.

The idea is to utilize electrode rays and place it in the brain, nerves or muscles as a digital means of translating the message between the body and the brain. This means that through brainpower alone, amputees have a chance at controlling movement.

Stimulating Touch as the Next Frontier in Neural Prosthetics

A significant aspect that acts as a roadblock for the progress of neural prosthetics is the sense of touch. A lack of sensory feedback will compromise an amputee’s ability to develop dexterity, which is why different labs from across the world are focusing on developing electrically stimulating prosthetic limbs.

The UChicago research team, for instance, has a $3.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to cover their study on the brain’s somatosensory cortex. By studying how the system transmits sensory information from the body’s nerves to the brain, the possibility of creating prosthetics that stimulate the nerves through electrodes in real-time is becoming highly likely. 

Through time and more advances in technology, the next bionic human maybe just on the horizon. 

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

Post-Amputation Guide: How to Care For Your Wounds – What to Know

While the loss of a limb can be physically and emotionally challenging, many people who have undergone amputation are still able to live healthy and active lives. Recuperation and rehabilitation will follow faster if the patient is armed with proper self-care information. 

Below are essential tips on how to best care for the wound after operation:

Post-Amputation Wound Care

The first and most critical step towards a patient’s recovery is caring for the injury and the residual limb. Any surgical wound, such as amputation, is at risk of becoming infected. This is because of the presence of germs and other bacteria that can enter the wound site, which can lead to other complications. Your injury and how it heals will depend on the amputation location. Keep in mind that the speed in which a wound heals varies among patients. It also depends on several factors, such as the amputation’s location and the limb’s condition during surgery. 

While at the hospital, pay attention as to how your doctors and nurses care for your wound. They will also give you special instructions before your discharge so that you’ll be able to care for yourself once you leave. Most amputees are inserted with a drainage tube to remove fluids after the surgery, which you will need to drain throughout the day. You’ll also need to change the gauze dressings regularly. If the amputation causes skeletal injuries to the residual limb, surgeons will use pins for bone alignment, and these devices will need to be sterilized as well. 

Remember to wash and sanitize your hands before handling the injured area. When cleaning, use a mild soap and water and never use alcohol-based agents. You can dab with a sterile gauze pad or a soft cloth but never scrub the wound. Be careful when washing the limb and prevent it from getting soaked. After cleaning, make sure that the area is completely dry because dampness is a breeding ground for bacteria. Never shave around the site and always check for ingrown hairs. 

Preparing for Prosthetics

As your healing progresses, you’ll need to schedule a follow-up session with your doctor so that they can remove the sutures and examine the progress of your skin. To help your limb better adjust to tolerance and pressure, do mild exercise, and gently massage the area every day. Wearing compression stockings or bands also helps prevent swelling. If you want to wear prosthetics, you will undergo a series of fittings and physical therapy. 

Take Note of Red Flags

Infections after amputation are severe and can even be life-threatening. Always check your skin for any swelling and tearing. Call your doctor immediately if you notice the following:

    • The residual limb is getting redder
    • The bleeding from the wound
    • The intense, sharp pains that don’t respond with medication
    • The wound is spreading and getting larger
    • The skin is warmer or colder to the touch than usual
    • The thick brownish or grey discharge

Undergoing an amputation is both life-changing and overwhelming. Don’t stress and allow yourself time to get used to your new routine and resume your daily activities. Having the right mindset and proper self-care is the key to a more comfortable and faster recovery.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

3 Tips for Amputee Rider’s to Get Back on the Bike – What to Know

Your motorcycle adventures don’t need to end with a leg amputation. On the other hand, although many riders have lost a limb, they can still hop right on their motorcycles can go for a ride. It’s a matter of making modifications to your motorcycle so it can comfortably adjust to your needs.

The first step is to consult with a local bike shop that specializes in custom bikes. Discuss your specific needs, abilities, and other physical concerns. Because of the limb loss, an amputee rider will use controls on a motorcycle differently than in the past In this article, we will share common bike customizations amputee riders can make to help them get back on the road. Below are some common modifications to consider:

1. Gear shifter
The gear shifter on a standard bike is operated by the left foot with a lift and push of the toes. Riders with below-knee (BK) prostheses can address this issue by adding a heel extension so that they can change gears by both pushing down the heel and toe. Some motorcycles, such as the Harley-Davidson, already offer this setting on their cruiser models. In some cases, riders with left leg prostheses can choose to move the gear shifter to the right side for more convenience.

A more recent alternative is the Kliktronic electronic shifter system. It is a gear changer that has a convenient push-button gear on the left handlebar. The entire kit is removable and can be transferred to another bike.

2. Brake
On a standard motorcycle, the rear wheel brake is operated by a toe lever for the right foot. For right leg amputees, they can either modify the right brake pedal to fit their prostheses or move the brake system entirely to the left side. They can also mount an additional hand brake lever on the handlebar. Newer bikes, such as those manufactured by BMW already come with an anti-lock brake system that seamlessly connects the front and rear brakes.

3. Above-knee challenges
For riders with above-knee (AK) prostheses, they face these two challenges: how to keep the bike upright when stopped, and how to operate the side stand. To address these concerns, some riders choose a prosthetic knee that is stable in an extended position and that connects the side stand to a hand lever extension below the tank. Some AK riders opt to ride a trike instead. It’s not the same as a bike, but sidecars give more stability while providing the riders freedom of movement.

Getting yourself and your motorcycle ready after a limb loss could be quite challenging, but it is certainly not an impossibility. With a few drawings, your trusted bike builder will be able to give recommendations and make adjustments for your motorcycle. It takes a great deal of mental and physical preparation, but with regular practice, you will be able to experience the wonderful thrill of being on the road again!

If you need help in choosing the best prosthesis for your biking adventures, get in touch with us and see our range of products. Our team will be happy to assist you and connect you with our distributors worldwide.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions for this winter, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

4 Useful Tips for Walking with Prosthetic Legs during Winter – What to Know

Navigating in temperate climates with prosthetic legs can already be a challenge for many, but it can be a slippery slope once winter hits the season. It can pose a threat to amputees that do not know how to handle taking a stroll out with a white blanket of snow outside, which is why we’re here to help stay steady and take the first step with ease. 

Various modern technologies are fortunately making winter easier for those using prosthetics from below the knee. With the tried and true tips below, you can get a grip and be one step closer to skiing, skating, or even snowboarding on ice once you get the hang of it!

Tip #1: Always Tread Carefully

Taking extreme caution is the name of the game when dealing with a cold environment and icy sidewalks, so be sure to tread carefully. Look ahead and watch out for any slippery hazards such as a slick, icy patch, or large snowbank. Don’t hesitate to take the time by avoiding these threatening situations as it will save you from trouble in the long run.

Don’t forget to leverage railings or handholds every time the opportunity arises as it will give you a better sense of grip as you traverse the winter wonderland. Stroll within your first few times, ensuring that you distribute your weight as evenly as possible. Of course, you’ll learn how to cope with winter the more you practice, allowing you to adjust to different types of snow after a while.

Tip #2: Choose the Right Boots

You can kick off a good start in winter by choosing the right boots to wear. With that in mind, you must pick a pair that values function over style as wearing kicks that have poor performance will only land you in trouble. With that in mind, the best pair is any winter footwear that enables you to get a good grip on your surroundings.

Rubber soles are an excellent choice, which gives you the option of buying shoes with built-in traction or strap-on grips such as Yaktrax. 

Tip #3: Always Stay Warm

Your footwear plays a significant role in keeping you comfortable during colder months, but maintaining warmth beyond your bottom knee goes a long way in preserving your energy. If you leave any part of your limbs exposed to the cold, you risk experiencing pain, which can compromise your abilities and functionality for the day. 

Tip #4: Consider Getting a Cane

Acquiring a cane may sometimes be hurtful to your pride, but there’s nothing more dangerous than letting pride win while you take the fall. With that in mind, getting a cane for additional support can make a world of difference as it can supplement your grip for winter. 

Winter may be a wonderland for many, but for amputees, it can pose a dangerous risk if you’re not careful. With that in mind, being aware of your surroundings and considering other factors that can lead you to threatening situations is necessary for your safety. For that reason, the tips above should give you a better grip of the season and help you make the first step to mastering the inclement weather.

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions for this winter, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!

Our Guide to Different Running Feet Types for Your Prosthetics

Sports offer people from all walks of life the chance to enjoy physical stimulation, excitement, and the thrill of competition. Not only does it hone your body to its healthiest state, but it keeps the mind active and in high spirits as a result of the endorphin-inducing activity. 

When it comes to running, wearing the right gear is crucial if you want to improve your performance. This applies to amputees as various sports-specific prosthetics are available at the market, all of which have different uses that cater to diverse running styles. 

With that in mind, persons with amputations will need the right prosthetic component as an integral part of their athletic experience. After all, amputees also need to have the proper equipment to participate in any sport they choose thoroughly. To that end, here are the different running feet styles you can choose from depending on your needs: 

Sprinting Feet

Sprinting requires a prosthetic that is designed to be stiffer compared to long-distance running feet. This is because a more rigid design allows the individual to run more efficiently by having a quicker energy return and propulsion. 

Long-Distance Running Feet

As the moniker suggests, long-distance running feet allows individuals to run for three miles (five kilometres) or beyond. Unlike the “J” design of sprinting feet, long-distance running feet will curve more similarly to the letter “C.” 

This design can foster energy that releases more slowly at a longer time span, which is opposite from the quick bursts from sprinting feet. 

Limb Length Discrepancy

Prosthetic running feet use plenty of energy using compression, which stores the power, and release, which talks about energy return. With that in mind, running using prosthetics can shorten the sides up to two inches, which can make for an awkward feeling as you run. 

To offset this problem, prosthetists tend to align your running leg by adding one to two inches to your prosthetic side to make you taller.

Foot Whip

The inward rotation of the foot when running is called a foot whip, which is caused by weak hip flexors and adductors. Through proper exercise and stretching, you can quickly strengthen this issue and ensure proper alignment. In prosthetics, foot whips happen due to poor suspension and improper prosthetic knee rotation. 

Technology today expands the functionality of prosthetic feet, allowing amputees to improve their physical health and invest in sports with a wide array of prosthetic running feet to choose from. Various models serve different purposes – from running, walking, dancing, cycling, golfing, swimming, and even snow skiing. 

This allows amputees to maximize their energy as modern designs can store and return some of the energy generated during running. To that end, there is no single type of running foot that is perfect for every kind of amputee. However, knowing your options will help you choose the best one that suits your needs. 

If you’re looking for foot prosthesis solutions, get in touch with Lindhe Xtend to see how we can help!