Technology
At The Limb Center, we use the most current techniques and the latest prosthetic technology
Featured Technology
Prosthetic Feet
There are many types of prosthetic feet with a variety of features. Many prosthetic manufacturers design and fabricate feet with the same or similar function. There are benefits and drawbacks for each type of foot. As an example, it is important to consider whether the advantage of hydraulic prosthetic foot outweighs the disadvantage of the significant increase in the weight and bulk of the foot. Our clinicians will discuss with you the pros and cons of various prosthetic feet and select the foot that best fits your lifestyle and functional level.
Running “Blades”
Running Blades are specialized prosthetic feet for sprinting or jogging. The curved design of the carbon foot compresses under impact to provide increased energy return. The shape of these feet replicates sprinting on one’s toes/forefoot. They are used without a shoe and come with a sole for traction and are intended for running, not walking.
SkinFit Suction Socket
These sockets are for above the knee amputees whose limbs have matured and maintain a stable volume. They require a highly skilled clinician to create an extremely intimate fitting socket. This design may not be appropriate for limbs with heavy scarring or an unusual shape. The socket is fit directly to the skin without the use of a liner or other cushioning. The socket is held onto the limb through suction with the use of a one way valve.
Elevated Vacuum Systems
These sockets are designed by applying negative pressure to the residual limb inside the socket. The benefits include eliminating moisture, maintaining limb volume, and reducing pistoning within the socket.
Prosthetic Knees
There are many types of prosthetic knees with a variety of features.
Mechanical Knee
For above knee amputees, these knee units cover a broad range of functions and features. They can have a single axis knee joint or multiple axis (polycentric) knee joint. These knees achieve stability by manually locking the knee in full extension, through a weight activated braking feature, or the actual design of the polycentric knee. The placement of the knee between the socket and the prosthetic foot is critical. The swing phase of mechanical knees is often controlled by pneumatics (air) or hydraulics (fluid) within the knee joint to provide smooth gait. Proper prosthetic gait mechanics is important for the user to achieve the greatest control and stability.
Microprocessor Knee
These knees are controlled by an internal computer with multiple sensors that monitor angle changes at the knee joint. The information collected allows the knee to adapt to the current walking situation in real time. The computer continually monitors any changes and adapts quickly in any environment. The microprocessor-controlled knees enable the users to walk up and down hills with ease and navigate stairs step over step.