Microprocessor Controlled Knees
As the leading manufacturer of microprocessor controlled knees, Ottobock has had nearly two decades of experience in this field. Thousands of Ottobock microprocessor knee systems have been sold worldwide. Combining research from our clinical scientists with amputees’ own experiences has allowed us to make continual advances in our prosthetic systems.
Ottobock introduced the world to the very first fully microprocessor-controlled knee in 1997, the C-Leg and ever since we have been dedicated to continuous improvement and advancement in mobility for above-knee amputees. Now available on the NHS (learn more here) the C-Leg is the most clinically evaluated MPK in history, with over 40 peer-reviewed, published studies that demonstrate proven results for users. The Compact was introduced to bring C-Leg technology to less active amputees who require a high degree of stability.
Thanks to groundbreaking technology, Genium was the first MPK to allow patients to walk upstairs step over step under their own power, cross obstacles more smoothly, and walk backwards. In 2013 the remarkable Genium X3 brought Ottobock technology to an entirely new level, introducing the unprecedented feature of a completely waterproof microprocessor knee
Types of Microprocessor Knee
How do they work?
Quick Facts
Fear of falling causes many people with lower limb amputations to compensate with changes in their walking style, like keeping their prosthetic knee straight with each step.
Compensating motions for a stiff-knee gait create unnatural stresses in the ankle, hip, lower back and other leg that can result in long-term effects.
When you receive a microprocessor knee, your physician usually prescribes additional therapy and gait training. If you have worn a mechanical knee for years, you may have to unlearn some compensating motions to achieve a smoother walking movement.
All microprocessor knees have a weight limit.