Smart Prosthetics – How 21st-Century Tech Increases Independence
These days, there’s hardly a device, gadget, or simple machine that hasn’t been changed by the digital revolution. We’ve got refrigerators that automatically take stock and reorder groceries. We can unlock front doors from a continent away with a simple mobile app. Technology and connectivity have improved nearly every aspect of modern life, and prosthetic devices are certainly no exception.
At Above & Beyond Orthopedics in Grosse Pointe, MI, we scour the latest prosthetic devices on the market to bring you the best and brightest options. Here’s how 21st-century tech is changing the mobility game.
Human Dexterity & Movement Are Complicated
Human movement is more complicated than we previously understood. Replicating natural movement, it follows, will be even more complex for prosthetic devices.
While walking has been described as “controlled falling,” there’s still so much to learn about balance, support, and the internal body systems responsible for both. Thankfully, smaller motors, powerful batteries, and microprocessors can empower your independence for a more fulfilling life.
Here’s just a handful of the 21st-century prosthetic tech on offer at Above & Beyond!
Cutting-Edge Tech-Assisted Smart Prosthetics
You can find several world-leading providers of smart prosthetics available at Above & Beyond Orthopedics. Today, we’re zooming in on Ottobock and Blatchford devices.
Ottobock
For 100 years and counting, this German company has been manufacturing and innovating world-leading prosthetic devices for a global market. Now, in keeping with a long tradition of excellence, Ottobock is changing the prosthetic industry once more.
Upper Limb Prosthetics
Ottobock’s upper limb prosthetics are more versatile than you imagined modern devices could be. Their battery-powered, bebionic hand Flex prosthesis feature 14 holds (and counting) so that users can achieve a greater range of actions—from tying their shoes to flipping pancakes on the stovetop.
Myoelectric systems and electric wrist rotators put you in charge of these diverse upper limb prosthetics.
Lower Limb Prosthetics
So much depends on the knee. Ottobock’s Kenevo, Genium, & Genium X3 prosthetic knee devices rely on leading-edge microprocessor technology to provide unparalleled mobility.
By predicting what action you’re taking (and preventing the actions you don’t mean to take) Ottobock’s microprocessors can “reduce the risk of uncontrolled falls by up to 80% in moderately active persons.”
Sitting, standing, ascending, and descending are all accounted for and assisted with, granting users the utmost confidence and safety as they go about their days. All three microprocessor knees have wheelchair functionality. They charge easily and even come with a programmed, stationary bike function that intuits your activity without any buttons or dials.
If you’re ready for the next evolution in smart prosthetic devices, you can learn more about Ottobock here.
Blatchford
Originally founded in London, England, in 1890, these days Blatchford fuses European design and American assembly to make a serious impact with their lower-limb prosthetic devices.
Lower Limb Prosthetics
Blatchford’s SmartIP microprocessor knee takes the concept of “smart prosthetics” to another level. Weight-activated stance control and programmable device swing features make a natural gait more accessible than ever.
The manufacturer’s ESK+MKL possesses the same features as the SmartIP while providing a pneumatic swing and offering a manually operated lock—perfect for those who need to stand for extended periods.
Across Blatchford’s full lineup of prostheses, you’ll find customized sport-specific feet and carbon fiber advancements alongside microprocessors—all of which make finding and maintaining a comfortable fit and movement that much easier.
The Future of Prosthetic Devices
At the end of the day, “ability” translates to “accessibility.” The more nimble and capable your prosthesis is, the more opportunities you can say “yes” to and the fewer you have to decline. From supporting your exercise routine of choice to helping you find a natural, comfortable, and safe way to walk, these devices and their ingenious microprocessors truly represent the way of the future.
To learn more about cutting-edge microprocessor-assisted prosthetic devices, call Above & Beyond Orthopedics today at (313) 631-1296 or contact us online. Proudly serving Grosse Pointe, MI, and the greater Metro Detroit area, we’re here to help you take back your life one step and grip at a time.
Discover the future of prosthetics at Above & Beyond in Grosse Pointe
From traditional cosmetic prostheses to the latest carbon fiber & microprocessor options, you’ll find everything you need at Above & Beyond! We also offer a full line of sockets and liners for the utmost comfort and can customize any prosthesis to fit you naturally. Visit us today to learn more about the newest prosthetic options for you, or contact us online. If we can be of any help at all, please call us today at (313) 631-1296.
