Neuro HiSwing R+
The NEURO HISWING R+ from FIOR & GENTZ is the most modern AFO ankle component on the market. This advancement in ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) technology, offers patient driven adaptive control for a wide range of activities and terrains.
What Makes the NEURO HISWING R+ Unique?
The Neuro HiSwing R + builds on the foundational design of the standard Neuro Swing by introducing advanced features that enhance adaptability and user control.
The core functionality is based on an ankle articulation that utilises pre-compressed springs to enhance stability, control and biomechanical efficiency throughout the phases of gait (heel strike, midstance, and toe-off).
The R+ further improves on traditional orthoses by providing a game-changing ability to remotely adjust the ankle angle/shank-to-vertical angle for different terrains and different shoe pitches.
Key Features
The R+ will automatically align itself based on your orthotists pre-set angle against gravity- so you can always get back to your optimal alignment regardless of shoe pitch or terrain angle..
Use of Manual Controls Instead of Automated Microprocessors
The R+ will automatically align itself based on your orthotists pre-set angle against gravity- so you can always get back to your optimal alignment regardless of shoe pitch or terrain angle.
Unlike devices like the C-Brace, which automatically detects gradients and adjusts accordingly, the R+requires manual activation for certain features. This allows the following:
- Greater control – less automatic intervention: Some users may lack the strength to counteract instability caused by increased dorsiflexion or altered angles. Manual adjustment ensures the user can maintain stability.
- Customisation: Users can decide when and where adjustments are necessary, tailoring the device’s performance to their needs.
While the R+incorporates sensors to detect gestures and spatial positioning, it stops short of full automation, prioritising user control and independence.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for the Neuro HiSwing R Plus?
The R + is designed for users who encounter varied terrains, would like movement at their ankle when relaxed or who may have varied requirements of standing posture (such as standing at a work bench) in their daily lives. This includes:
- Individuals who navigate stairs or steep inclines.
- Those who enjoy outdoor activities such as walking or hiking.
- Users with the strength and stability to control their knee movements while using an advanced AFO.
- Certain occupational requirements
Which AFO Wearers are NOT Suited to the R + ?
- Patients who primarily walk on flat, even surfaces.
- Those with limited strength or mobility that compromises knee stability.
- Those who require or desire a very small ankle joint in their AFO
How Does It Compare to Other AFOs?
For a person with a functional ankle walking on different terrain doesn’t impact the rest of the body because the ankle ‘soaks up’ the angle change. However if we have a locked ankle we see flow on effects, for example imagine walking up or down a hill in ski boots.
Compared to traditional AFOs or simpler Neuro Swing models, the R + reduces mobility limitations, allowing better movement on stairs, slopes, more variability in shoe pitch.
The reason for this is that a normal AFO is aligned on flat ground for flat ground walking with a certain shoe pitch factored in.
If the angle of the ground changes (such as when walking up hill) the AFO may become less comfortable and initiate problems such as knee hyperextension.
The R+ will change the angle of the tibial section when the patient requests it do to so, ensuring the patient maintains their lower limb in optimal alignment for gait.
The R+ focuses solely on the ankle joint, requiring the user to possess sufficient knee strength when used in an AFO. If the patient lacks knee strength we can incorporate it into a KAFO design or a C-Brace.
What’s Involved in Using the Neuro HiSwing R +?
Before prescribing the R +, clinicians at Orthotics Plus conduct thorough assessments and trials to determine:
- The patient’s physical capabilities.
- Whether the additional features of the R + are necessary.
- Suitability of the device for specific activities or lifestyles.
Users must then become familiar with the gestures used to activate certain features and app interface to activate features like gradient adjustment or Relaxed Mode.
This involves practice but becomes intuitive over time.
Accessing the Neuro HiSwing R Plus
Patients interested in this cutting-edge technology should contact Orthotics Plus for an assessment.
During the consultation, clinicians will evaluate the patient’s needs, trial the device if appropriate, and guide them through the process of funding, casting, and fabrication.
The Neuro HiSwing R + empowers users to achieve greater mobility and independence, making it an invaluable tool for those with an active lifestyle.
To learn more or book an assessment, get in touch with Orthotics Plus today!
View Clinic Locations Call (03) 9077 6414
