Finding the best prosthetic foot for you.
It’s so much more than a foot. It’s your foundation.
This is what you can rely on
Heritage
Quality
Trust
3 results out of 3
Our portfolio and (your role in) the fitting process
Carbon Feet
Terion K2
Designed for less active individuals who mainly navigate indoor environments and will utilise a walking aid for outdoor ambulation and place a high value on dependable support from their prosthetic foot.
Designed for less active individuals who mainly navigate indoor environments and will utilise a walking aid for outdoor ambulation and place a high value on dependable support from their prosthetic foot.
Trias
Taleo Family
Evanto
Designed for moderately active and active individuals, Evanto offers exceptional multi-axial flexibility. Its ability to adapt to uneven terrain ensures that you experience both comfort and confidence in every step.
Designed for moderately active and active individuals, Evanto offers exceptional multi-axial flexibility. Its ability to adapt to uneven terrain ensures that you experience both comfort and confidence in every step.
Triton
5 results out of 5
Microprocessor Feet
Meridium
Empower
2 results out of 2
Sports Feet
Runner
Challenger
2 results out of 2
Choosing a Prosthetic Foot.
Designing prosthetic foot systems is challenging. It’s very difficult to reproduce the complex workings of the human foot and ankle. Ideally the foot will be light because its weight is added to the rest of the prosthetic leg. If the foot is too heavy and the suspension of the prosthesis is not appropriate, the connection to the socket and your limb will be affected and also the overall function of the prosthesis.
A good prosthetic foot should also be strong, as it will be taking on large forces and torque as you walk and run. Feet must also be small enough to fit within a foot shell, a cosmetic covering for the prosthetic foot, and thus fit within a shoe. Being light, strong and small whilst still remaining functional and durable is the challenge.
Early designs for prosthetic feet were often a solid piece of wood. A similar design, the SACH (solid-ankle-cushioned-heel) is still in use because of its sturdy function. It is especially useful for individuals with lower activity levels. A SACH foot typically has a rigid inner structure (wood or plastic) surrounded by a compressible foam cosmetic shell.
Today’s more sophisticated feet add more functions and are secured inside a cosmetic shell. Most people never see their prosthetic foot without this exterior shell. The cosmetic shell stretches around the prosthetic foot and serves two purposes:
It makes your prosthetic foot look like an anatomical foot.
It fits snuggly in your shoe.
What’s inside the shell can vary dramatically. Prosthetic feet are designed to meet the needs of your lifestyle and activity level. Here are some factors to consider.
Materials
Comfort
Function
Multi-axial motion
Energy Storage
A carbon fibre foot is designed to store and return energy while walking, giving you a literal "spring" in your step. The carbon fibre acts like a spring, compressing as you apply weight and then releasing energy to propel you forward as you roll off the toe of the foot. Some prosthetic feet feature dual springs, one in the heel and another in the forefoot, providing the flexibility needed for walking at various speeds, running, climbing hills, or descending stairs with stability and confidence. With carbon fibre, the longer the spring, the more energy it can store and the the more responsive the foot will be.
How you and your Prosthetist select the right prosthetic foot for you
Amputation Level
When selecting components for your prosthesis, one of the first factors considered is your level of amputation. For above-knee amputations, a prosthetic knee joint is necessary, and the type of knee joint will influence the choice of prosthetic foot. Your Prosthetist will assess the functions of the knee joint and recommend the most suitable prosthetic foot. For below-knee amputations, where the natural knee joint remains intact, your Prosthetist will consider on factors such as the length of the residual limb, strength, and range of motion to recommend the right prosthetic foot for your needs.
Activity Levels
Prosthetic feet are categorised by activity levels, also known as mobility grades, meaning not all prosthetic feet are suitable for every user. Choosing a prosthetic foot that matches your activity level is crucial for optimising both your mobility and quality of life. Below are basic guidelines to help identify your activity level. If you're between two levels, your Prosthetist will consider multiple options to determine what is best for you.
Activity Level 1
The amputee has the ability or the potential to use the prosthesis for transfers or for the purpose of moving slowly on level floors. The amount of time and the distance the amputee can walk are seriously limited due to their condition.
Therapy goal: Restoring the ability to stand and to walk indoors to a limited degree.
Body Weight
Each prosthetic foot is designed for a specific weight range. Therefore, to ensure that a prosthetic foot performs well for you, your Prosthetist will choose one suited to your weight category.
Build Height
Foot Size
Just like human feet, prosthetic feet come in various lengths and sizes. However, they are measured in centimeters rather than standard shoe sizes. Each prosthetic foot is available in a specific size range, with options for children as well as adults. Some specialised prosthetic feet, such as Ottobock running blades and sports specific feet, are often available in only one standard size.
Personal Factors
In addition to the technical selection criteria, your prosthetist will consider your personal needs, lifestyle, and goals when selecting a prosthetic foot. Factors such as your desire to participate in sports or even simple activities like painting your toenails are essential. Ultimately, your prosthetic foot should feel like a natural extension of you, enhancing your daily life and personal expression.
