Proprio Foot

The purpose behind this blog is multi-faceted. First, we want to provide our patients with information about special events at OPC. Second, we have the honor of working with some extraordinary patients, so we hope to use this blog to share their stories. Finally, we will be profiling prosthetic technology and components by reviewing both the positive and negative features of the highlighted product.

The first in our series is the Proprio Foot, a microprocessor foot/ankle system for the BK amputee. In addition to picking up the toe during swing phase, the Proprio has the ability to automatically adjust itself for walking up and down ramps and inclines. Instead of walking on the toe of the prosthetic and powering up the ramp, which is often the norm for the lower extremity amputee, the Proprio wearer can walk with a flat foot on the hill with an undisturbed gait.

Benefits also can be reaped when ascending and descending stairs. Once the stairs are detected by the device, the foot will lift a predetermined number of degrees to provide more toe clearance. When the amputee is descending stairs, the Proprio adjusts to allow the full prosthetic foot to be placed on the step, increasing safety.

Changing shoes and switching between heel heights is simplified with the Proprio's heel height adjustment feature. The feature adjusts the ankle to accommodate heels of 1.5 inches with the simple push of two buttons. This user-friendly feature is one of the unique benefits of this foot system.

The foot is one of the heaviest foot/ankle systems available, weighing in at 2.75 pounds. Because it is a microprocessor system, the ankle is not appropriate for all environments and cannot be worn during high impact activities. The battery pack, typically mounted in the rear of the socket, needs to be charged nightly. The movement of the ankle limits options concerning cosmetic covers.

The Proprio Foot is just one of many prosthetic options available for the BK amputee. Ask us about its appropriateness for you and learn more about this foot at http://www.ossur.com.