What does it mean to have a digitally-connected prosthetic device? Magellan, a new microprocessor-powered foot and ankle system, can talk to iPhones or iPads—patients can use an app to make adjustments to the prosthetic themselves.
When someone changes shoes, for example, they can also adjust the settings on their prosthetic for increased comfortable.With a standard prosthetic, a patient has to visit a doctor’s office to have an adjustment made with a wrench, so day-to-day changes in the device are impractical. This new technology solves that problem. It also wirelessly sends information to health care providers, so a doctor or physical therapist can follow patient progress in detail over time. \n
\n
The microprocessor inside Magellan also makes it possible for the prosthetic to better mimic the human ankle, which naturally changes in flexibility and strength as someone walks or runs. The device mimics the hundreds of adjustments an ankle would make throughout the day, as someone stands, walks up stairs, or walks on uneven terrain.\n
The prosthetic is still in testing, but will be out this fall. \n
Share on Facebook
