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.
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.
| Indications | Paraplegia, Paralysis, Neurological disorders |
| User group | adults |
| Applications | Custom Orthotics |
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 is small enough to be worn inconspicuously under clothing. Because it’s lightweight, the user expends less effort while walking.
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.
I can do that on my own again
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.”
Marjan tells her story
Marjan from the Netherlands has incomplete paraplegia due to cancer. She talks about how her life changed as a result and tells us who gave her strength in this difficult time.
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.
Wolfgang tells his story
Wolfgang has polio and post-polio syndrome, and his right leg is paralysed. Recently, he was fitted with the new C-Brace. He describes how it improves his gait pattern, and especially how it supports him in tripping situations.
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.
Living with spinal cord injury - Ayleen tells her story
Ayleen lives with a degenerative spinal disease that led to herniated discs already in childhood. However, this never stopped the Marburg native from shaping her life the way she wants. After a spinal cord injury in 2020, her health condition worsened drastically, and she was diagnosed with bilateral paraplegia. The previously active young woman lost her ability to walk and stand and had to use a wheelchair. Alternative treatments to help her get back on her feet were dismissed in the rehab clinic. But the economics graduate did not let these limitations stop her and did her own research. Finally, she discovered the microprocessor-controlled leg orthosis C-Brace. The smart mobility solutions from Ottobock, which she wears on her legs, restored Ayleen's mobility.
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.
Learn more
Request a Trial
Interested in giving the C-Brace a try? Please provide additional information and we will connect you with a partnered O&P professional for a trial.
Product information
| Product type | Mechatronic orthotic knee joints |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| User group | adults |
Product Data
| Article number | Description | Side | Max. body weight | Weight of all components without packaging |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17KO1=L | C-Brace® joint unit | left (L) | 275 lbs | 1390 g |
| 17KO1=R | C-Brace® joint unit | right (R) | 275 lbs | 1390 g |