Company to give scoop on prosthetics

The world of prosthetic technology, designed to ease the lives of amputees, has come a long way in the last few decades.

  That is why Hanger Prosthetics is hosting a show-and-tell event Friday afternoon to let the public know about advances in the field of prosthetics, and how those in need can get and best use the equipment.

  "We are working to educate the community and local medical professionals," said Jean Hobkirk, certified prosthetist at Hanger Prosthetics. "We will be showcasing the computer-controlled C-leg, and demonstrating how an amputee who has lost their leg above the knee can use it. It has onboard sensors and microprocessors that anticipate and adapt to a person's movement. The C-leg immediately adjusts 50 times per second to changes in walking speed and direction, providing knee stability the moment it is needed. These features allow users to walk down stairs and ramps and maneuver rough terrain without the fear of falling. Falling down was a common occurrence for amputees using conventional prosthetic legs used in the past, which were completely stiff and did not bend at the knee."

  The demonstration will be open to the public starting at noon, and will last about two hours on Friday. The event will be held at Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics located at 2451 S. Avenue A, Suite 25. For more information, call 341-1965.