FW: Responses waterproof flattie

FW: Responses waterproof flattie

Mark Harasimiuk

4/14/2004

No sure this made it through the first time??

-----Original Message-----
Subject: waterproof flattie

I have some one in to see me and he is an active through knee amputee that
walks without footwear almost all the time. The other issue is that he
likes to beach fish and stands in the salt water quite often.

Can anyone recommend a good waterproof foot (0 heel height) and knee/shin
combination? I'm happy to look at exos but not sure of the best
combination. He's on an Blatchford foot and ankle and Otto Bock 3R49 four
bar knee at present.




Thanks for the help. Still mulling through the options



Mark Harasimiuk
Prosthetist/Orthotist
Latrobe Regional Hospital
PO Box 424
Traralgon, Victoria
Australia
+61 3 5173 8383
+61 3 5173 8386 fax

<Email Address Redacted> <mailto:<Email Address Redacted>>
www.lrh.com.au < <URL Redacted>>



I would suggest the Jaipur foot from India. They are made by TVS Rubber in
Madras. I visited the factory in '99 and was very impressed. The foot is
sealed in vulcanized rubber, very realistic with separate great toe for
sandals and 0 heel height. Inside it is made with foams or various
durometers and orientation and when complete it reacts like a multi axis
foot. I have even seen a T/T climb a coconut tree with one on!! We were
there to ask them to add a metric foot bolt to it so it would be modular
with european components - be sure to verify which bolt is on it!

I have heard that they last forever and are often worn barefoot in India
with few problems. They are also extremely cheap! They were less than $10
USD when I visited but I am sure the prices would be different for export!


I have used the Seattle systems Seattle Sach foot because it has no wood
in it. And it is really cheap. I think around $60, so it can be
replaced yearly with almost no cost. Not very dynamic though, but works
well. I make them wear an aqua sock on it so it doesn't wear out so
fast.

For the foot, use the KC10T Wayfarer Steplite. (Ortho Techniques and
Massons)
Zero heel, split toe, a little wider for stability.

In that he wears the foot barefoot quite often, you might think about adding
a thin layer of crepe neoprene soling for additional durability.


We've done a bit of stuff in the waterproof area.
... BUT the use of a reef shoe at $20 on
any prosthesis will be infinitely more cost effective and protect $100s
if not $1000s worth of components.


Would strongly recommend using an Aulie waterproof endo knee. Only endo
knee specifically designed for aquatic activities. Price is approx. USD
1,500. I'd combine this with an OB 1D10 Dynamic foot. The foot has a heel
height of 5mm, but is extremely compliant. If the heel height is an issue,
you can place some small planter build-ups to assist.

You will need to place some 1mm Topy along the sole for durability. You
will also require some silicon window sealant for the bolt hole and the
proximal surface (as the keel is constructed from wood).





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