Prosthetic running legs work by emulating the spring-like behavior of biological legs during ground contact, although they don't fully replicate all aspects of natural leg function.
Here's a breakdown of how they achieve this:
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Attachment: Running prostheses attach to the residual limb using rigid, custom-fitted carbon-fiber sockets. This socket is crucial for a secure and comfortable connection.
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Spring-Like Action: The key to running prostheses is their carbon-fiber construction. This material allows the prosthesis to flex and store energy during the stance phase of running (when the foot is on the ground). This stored energy is then released as the runner pushes off, propelling them forward. This mimics the action of tendons and muscles in a biological leg.
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Emulating but not Fully Replicating: While running prostheses effectively simulate the spring-like behavior of biological legs, it's important to understand that they do not completely replicate all functions. They are designed specifically for forward propulsion and may not offer the same degree of stability, balance, or nuanced control as a biological leg.
Feature | Prosthetic Running Leg | Biological Leg |
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Attachment | Rigid carbon-fibre socket to residual limb | Natural bone structure and soft tissues |
Function | Emulates spring-like behavior during ground contact; stores and releases energy. Not fully replicating function [1, 3]. | Complex interplay of muscles, tendons, and bones for propulsion, balance, and stability. |
Material | Carbon-fiber | Bone, muscle, tendon |
Reference(s):
- [1] 05-Jan-2022