How does the knee work?
Prosthetic knees are primarily distinguished by their activity level, ranging from low activity to high activity. Low activity knees are designed to maximize stability, while high activity knees are designed to minimize energy expenditure or facilitate special activities such as skiing, running, and dancing. There are also microprocessor controlled knees, also known as “smart knees”, that offer a wide variety of features, ranging from “stumble-recovery” to backwards walking. During your prosthetic evaluation, our prosthetist will review different knee options and work with you to determine what you need.
Prosthetic Knees
Low activity knees are perfect for patients who require extra stability and support. These knees are extremely safe and lightweight - ideal for rehabilitation, transferring, and limited ambulation. Low activity knees are easy to use. Many low activity knees feature a manual lock users can release in order to sit down. Low activity knees are excellent for individuals walking short distances at slow speeds and individuals with limited knee control.
Low Activity
Medium activity knees are perfect for patients spending a moderate amount of time on their feet. These knees are well-suited for individuals with good balance and those who are comfortable walking at different speeds. Medium activity knees offer great stability and functionality - ideal for patients who are out-and-about performing a wide variety of tasks on their feet, but not for patients participating in high-impact or high-activity exercises.
Medium Activity
High activity knees can do it all. Walking, running, jumping, dancing - it can all be done with a high activity knee. These knees are perfect for individuals who are on their feet performing a variety of tasks at different speeds. High activity knees work well for ascending and descending stairs and walking or running on slopes and uneven terrain. Many high activity knees can help patients achieve a natural walking motion through the use of hydraulic systems. Some high activity knees offer several modes, like “walking” and “running”, that users can choose from.
High Activity
Sports knees are typically designed for specific activities like skiing, running, and swimming. They are constructed to withstand the heavy wear-and-tear associated with high-impact sports as well exposure to the elements like sweat, snow, and rain. The various features of sports knees are determined by what sport they are designed for. Running knees, for example, allow for fast changes in speed and give patients ultimate control over the smoothness and length of their strides. Skiing and water-sport knees, on the other hand, are designed to accommodate dynamic movements like deep bends and cutting. Sports knees are highly specialized and not ideal for everyday use.
Sports
Microprocessor knees (MPKs) are the gold standard for prosthetic knees. These knees offer high-technology features like “stumble recovery” and “backwards walking.” MPKs are ideal for everyday use. These knees are great for walking at different speeds and on varied terrain. MPKs are bluetooth compatible and fully customized to the wearer. Eschen is proud to be the leading provider of microprocessor knees in the Northeast.
Microprocessor
Why Choose Eschen?
Eschen is proud to be a global leader in prosthetic and orthotic care. As a thought leader and innovator in the field, we are able to offer an unparalleled patient experience and superior outcomes compared to other leading providers.
Effectively providing prosthetics and orthotics requires the coordinated care of a team of medical experts, and Eschen is proud to partner with experts in the fields of orthopedic surgery, physical medicine and rehabilitation, 3D printing, and biomechanical engineering.
Unlike most orthotic and prosthetic providers who are comprised of generalists, Eschen is proud to have built a world-class team of specialists in the areas of:
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Pediatrics
At Eschen, our clinicians have dedicated their careers to providing prosthetic and orthotic care. With over 500 years of combined experience there’s nothing we haven’t seen and nothing we can’t do.
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Our Mission
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Our mission is to maximize the quality of life of our patients and provide an unparalleled patient-centered experience by mobilizing world-class clinicians, healthcare administrators, and institutional partnership in delivering top-of-the-line prosthetic and orthotic services. Our clinicians and administrators have over 500 years of combined experience. Unlike most orthotic and prosthetic providers who are comprised of generalists, Eschen is proud to have built a world-class team of specialists in the areas of: Prosthetics, Orthotics, Sports Bracing, Pediatrics and Scoliosis.
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