C-Brace® KAFO
The microprocessor-controlled C-Brace takes freedom of movement to a completely new level. The C-Brace is the first-ever KAFO that allows users to flex their leg under load (in order to sit down, for example), and to navigate slopes, walk on uneven terrain, or descend stairs step-over-step. And the C-Brace has even more to offer. It’s smaller, so it can also be worn under clothing; and it’s lighter, so the user doesn’t need to exert as much effort when walking. Advanced sensor technology makes the entire gait pattern even more dynamic and responsive. The user can also change settings on their joint, e.g., switching to cycling mode, via a smartphone app.
Thigh shell
Custom thigh shell made of fibre composite material
C-Brace® joint unit with 3D sensor and microprocessor
The 3D sensor in the joint axle measures the current position of the joint every 0.01 seconds. The microprocessor receives and processes the sensor signals and controls walking with the C-Brace® in real time.
Display
Shows the system status and battery charge level
Lower leg shell
Custom fabricated lower leg shell made of fibre composite material
Foot component
Custom fabricated foot component made of fibre composite material
Ankle joint
Various ankle joints are suitable. The Nexgear Tango is an ideal combination option. Thanks to strong spring force and extensive freedom of movement, it allows for a more dynamic gait and makes the entire gait pattern more physiological and hence more efficient.
C-Brace® KAFO
The microprocessor-controlled C-Brace takes freedom of movement to a completely new level. The C-Brace is the first-ever KAFO that allows users to flex their leg under load (in order to sit down, for example), and to navigate slopes, walk on uneven terrain, or descend stairs step-over-step. And the C-Brace has even more to offer. It’s smaller, so it can also be worn under clothing; and it’s lighter, so the user doesn’t need to exert as much effort when walking. Advanced sensor technology makes the entire gait pattern even more dynamic and responsive. The user can also change settings on their joint, e.g., switching to cycling mode, via a smartphone app.
| Terms and conditions | Paraplegia, Paralysis, Neurological disorders |
| User group | adults |
| Applications | Custom orthotics |
C-Brace® KAFO
The microprocessor-controlled C-Brace takes freedom of movement to a completely new level. The C-Brace is the first-ever KAFO that allows users to flex their leg under load (in order to sit down, for example), and to navigate slopes, walk on uneven terrain, or descend stairs step-over-step. And the C-Brace has even more to offer. It’s smaller, so it can also be worn under clothing; and it’s lighter, so the user doesn’t need to exert as much effort when walking. Advanced sensor technology makes the entire gait pattern even more dynamic and responsive. The user can also change settings on their joint, e.g., switching to cycling mode, via a smartphone app.
Thigh shell
Custom thigh shell made of fibre composite material
C-Brace® joint unit with 3D sensor and microprocessor
The 3D sensor in the joint axle measures the current position of the joint every 0.01 seconds. The microprocessor receives and processes the sensor signals and controls walking with the C-Brace® in real time.
Display
Shows the system status and battery charge level
Lower leg shell
Custom fabricated lower leg shell made of fibre composite material
Foot component
Custom fabricated foot component made of fibre composite material
Ankle joint
Various ankle joints are suitable. The Nexgear Tango is an ideal combination option. Thanks to strong spring force and extensive freedom of movement, it allows for a more dynamic gait and makes the entire gait pattern more physiological and hence more efficient.
C-Brace® – custom configuration with smart control
The C-Brace allows users to experience a whole new world of movement. Users can walk slowly or quickly, navigate slopes or uneven terrain, avoid trip hazards, descend stairs step-over-step, or flex the leg while it’s under load.
The C-Brace responds in real time. This makes users feel safe even when they face potential trip hazards – because they can take steps or sit down with the knee flexed, and can also walk on uneven terrain or slopes.
Users can control their C-Brace with the convenient Cockpit app, for example when switching to cycling mode. The O&P professional uses the Setup app to individually adjust the C-Brace easily.
The new sensor technology makes the C-Brace even more intuitive to use, with additional dynamic and responsive movement patterns.
The C-Brace is fully customized to each individual patient. Patients can request a trial to see if they are a candidate prior to receiving a C-Brace.
Denise tells her story
Denise has incomplete paraplegia since an intervertebral disc operation. The young mother talks about how her life changed as a result and tells us who gave her strength in this difficult time.
David T. tells his story
David was serving as a US Marine when a bomb exploded directly next to him in Afghanistan. Not only did the blow affect him physically by paralyzing both legs, but it also affected him mentally. “I’ve been down the darkest part of the road, to make the final decision to not want to live anymore,” David said. After using a wheelchair for seven years, David tried C-Brace after being told he would never walk again. “Putting on the C-Brace for the first time was a feeling I could never relive again,” David said. “Right then, it was me again.” Using advanced microprocessor sensor technology, C-Brace supports David’s movements with every step. Now a proud father of five children, David says, “I used to serve my country, and now I serve my family.”
David M. tells his story
David was involved in a serious motorcycle accident in 2016, and his left leg is completely paralysed from the hip down due to a spinal cord injury. He was recently fitted with the new C-Brace and talks about his active life from studying to exploring nature.
Melvin tells his story
Melvin has polio, and his left leg is partially paralyzed as a result. He talks about how he was fitted with the new C-Brace and how it supports him in his active life.
I can do things on my own again
Hannah has a spinal cord injury, and her right leg is paralyzed. The new C-Brace has boosted her self-confidence. She now manages her day-to-day life with her two small children entirely on her own again.
In conversation with Wolfgang
Wolfgang has polio and post-polio syndrome. His right leg is paralyzed as a result. He talks about how, and in what particular situations, the new C-Brace provides him with support.
Hannah tells her story
Hannah has a spinal cord injury, and her right leg is paralysed as a result. Recently, she was fitted with the new C-Brace. She talks about how her life has changed as a result.
In conversation with Melvin
Melvin has polio, and his left leg is partially paralysed as a result. He was fitted with the new C-Brace and talks about his everyday experiences with it.
Intelligent sensors for continuous movement control
Walking recalculated
The C-Brace includes thigh, lower leg, and foot components, all of which are custom fabricated. An ankle joint (unilateral or bilateral treatment) or a custom spring element connects the foot and lower leg components. The sensor technology continuously measures knee flexion and angular acceleration of the knee. This allows the C-Brace to detect which phase of the gait cycle the user is currently in. It can then regulate the hydraulic resistances and control the flexion and extension of the knee joint.
Product information
| Product type | Mechatronic orthotic knee joints |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| User group | adults |
Documents
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Answers for you
How can I find out whether the C-Brace is suitable for me?
The C-Brace can be used for numerous neurological indications. However, only a detailed examination conducted by a clinician can determine whether the C-Brace is actually suitable in your specific case.
Assuming the C-Brace is a suitable option for me – can I test the orthosis first?
Before you are fitted with a C-Brace orthosis, your certified O&P professional can use a trial orthosis to determine whether you will be able to use the functions of the C-Brace.
How long does it take to learn to walk with the C-Brace?
Many different factors determine how soon you can walk with the C-Brace and whether you are a candidate for its full functionality. Your personal physical condition is an important factor. Please connect with your certified O&P professional for an initial consultation.
How do I learn to use the C-Brace?
When you are fitted with a C-Brace, your technician will explain the proper use of the orthosis to you in detail. In the course of special training and exercises, you will learn everything you need to know in order to use your C-Brace to its best ability.
Can I shower with the C-Brace orthosis?
The C-Brace is not suitable for showering. However, Ottobock’s Aqualine orthosis system is a waterproof walking device designed especially for wet conditions. All of its components are designed for contact with water.