Neuro Hitronic
At Orthotics Plus Melbourne, we are committed to providing modern advanced technology solutions to improve our client’s mobility and quality of life.
One such piece of technology is the NeuroHitronic KAFO, an advanced electronic knee-ankle-foot orthosis designed to assist individuals with lower limb weakness or paralysis.
It is available to access throughout our multiple clinic locations.
What is the Neurotronic KAFO?
The Neurotronic KAFO is an innovative device featuring a unique electro-hydraulic knee locking system.
The NeuroHitronic KAFO supports a natural walking pattern as it dynamically locks and unlocks during different phases of the gait cycle.
Key Features:
- Swing and Stance Control: The Neurotronic KAFO’s hydraulic joint locks during stance phase for stability and unlocks during swing phase for ease of movement.
- Microprocessor Control: This device uses a microprocessor to monitor the user’s gait cycle, checking positioning up to 400 times per second to ensure optimal performance.
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing under 400 grams and 3.5 cm thick, it offers a discreet profile and can be worn under clothing.
- User-Friendly Adjustments: Users can switch between free swinging, locked, or automatic modes via an app, a remote, or the device itself.
This ensures the patient has stability during stance (when the foot is in the ground) but the ability to bend and flex the knee whilst walking to allow swinging the leg.
How Does It Work?
The Neurotronic KAFO utilises advanced sensors to determine the phase of the gait cycle.
These sensors analyse the position and acceleration of the shin to decide when to lock or unlock the knee joint, providing a seamless transition between stance and swing phases.
Stand Phase – Locking Mechanism: When you are standing or bearing weight on your leg, the hydraulic joint automatically locks. This locking provides stability and prevents your knee from collapsing, ensuring you can stand securely.
Swing Phase – Unlocking Mechanism: As you begin to swing your leg through for the next step, the hydraulic joint unlocks. This unlocking allows your knee to bend freely, enabling a smoother and more natural walking motion.
Who is a NeuroTronic Suitable for?
The Neurotronic KAFO is suitable to consider for patients with:
- Knee extensor weakness
- General lower limb weakness
- Conditions such as post-polio syndrome, stroke, peripheral nerve injuries, spinal cord injuries, acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy.
Patients with these conditions often struggle with maintaining knee stability, making the Neurotronic KAFO one solution to enhance their walking ability.
Benefits Of the NeuroTronic
The Neurotronic KAFO offers two key advantages:
- Improved Mobility: Enables walking with natural swing phase reducing the need for hip hiking and resulting in a more natural gait.
- Enhanced Safety: The device locks securely during stance to prevent knee collapse and unlocks reliably during swing to facilitate smoother movement.
The device, like other KAFOs, is highly customisable. So there are options for shell design, trim lines, colors, and prints ensure a personalised fit that meets each patient’s unique needs.
Getting Started with Orthotics Plus
To learn more about the Neurotronic KAFO and how it can improve your mobility, contact Orthotics Plus Melbourne.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Our specialists will conduct a thorough assessment, including physical strength tests and measurements.
- NDIS Request Form: We are able to complete the necessary reports and submit the Advanced Technology request to the NDIS / NDIA
- Learning Phase: Patients will undergo a period of adaptation to get accustomed to the new device, with our team providing support and training.
Our expert team is here to guide you through the process, from assessment to adaptation, ensuring you receive the best possible care and support.
FAQ
It can last up to 36,000 steps.
The user is also notified of the battery level via an app on their phone.
The NeuroHitronic is splash and rain proof however not entirely water resistant.
The shells and structure are custom made, the componentry is made by the world leading orthopaedic company Fior & Gentz in Germany.