BionicM and Brooks Rehabilitation Launch Comprehensive Study on Prosthetic Knee Technology
In a groundbreaking collaboration, BionicM USA LLC and Brooks Rehabilitation have announced the launch of a clinical study designed to compare the innovative Bio Leg powered prosthetic knee with traditional microprocessor-controlled knees. This study, titled "Adaptive Mobility Technology: A Comparative Study of Bio Leg and C-Leg," aims to evaluate how the cutting-edge Bio Leg technology impacts functional mobility for individuals with transfemoral (above-knee) amputations, particularly in real-world situations.
Following a transfemoral amputation, many patients face chronic mobility challenges, especially when navigating uneven terrains such as ramps or transitioning from sitting to standing. Traditional microprocessor knees have made significant advancements in providing stability and safety; however, there remains a gap in helping users tackle demanding physical tasks. BionicM's Bio Leg is engineered to offer powered assistance, potentially reducing fatigue and improving users' overall mobility experience. This study will generate objective data regarding the effectiveness of powered knee technology on movement quality and efficiency.
The primary focus of this pilot study is to evaluate the functional mobility of participants using the Bio Leg in comparison to their existing microprocessor-controlled prostheses. A combination of clinical testing methods, biomechanical assessments, and patient-reported measures will be employed to capture a comprehensive understanding of mobility performance.
Testing is set to occur at Brooks Rehabilitation facilities, incorporating resources like the Brooks Motion Analysis Center, which is renowned for its advanced assessment methodology and research infrastructure. The aim is to obtain robust data that reflects multiple facets of mobility performance and user satisfaction.
An interdisciplinary team at Brooks Rehabilitation is steering the research, including physical therapists, physicians, and biomechanical specialists with extensive knowledge in amputee rehabilitation. The study is led by Emily J. Fox, PhD, DPT, MHS, who heads the neuromuscular research at Brooks Rehabilitation, with clinical guidance from Howard Weiss, DO, the medical director of the Amputee Program.
Utilizing a within-subject comparative design, the study will involve adults with unilateral transfemoral amputations who will first be assessed using their regular prosthetics before a subsequent evaluation after they have acclimated to the Bio Leg. This method aims to evaluate not only the mobility and endurance outcomes but also the functional performance of the Bio Leg compared to existing knee technologies.
Emily J. Fox, PhD, emphasizes the importance of this research: "This study reflects a collaborative effort that rigorously evaluates powered prosthetic knee technology through established clinical and biomechanical methods. Our goal is to provide high-quality data aimed at informing clinicians, researchers, and individuals with limb loss about the potential benefits of advanced prosthetic technologies."
In parallel, Howard Weiss, DO, reflects on his experiences with the Bio Leg, noting promising outcomes and its intuitive operation compared to other prosthetic options. The results of this important study will be analyzed and disseminated through scientific and clinical channels once data collection concludes, paving the way for potential advancements in prosthetic design and rehabilitation practices.
Founded in 2018 as a spinoff from the University of Tokyo, BionicM has emerged from pioneering research undertaken during Sunny Xiaojun Sun's doctoral studies. The company is backed by JST’s START program and is committed to creating advanced powered microprocessor knees. With a mission to "Power Mobility for All," BionicM aims to enhance mobility and improve the quality of life for individuals with lower-limb amputations through its innovative technology.
Established over 55 years ago, Brooks Rehabilitation is a nonprofit organization based in Jacksonville, Florida, recognized nationally for its comprehensive physical rehabilitation care. It operates several inpatient hospitals across Florida and continues to expand its services with a new facility opening soon. Brooks is heavily involved in research and technological advancements in the rehabilitation field, providing outpatient services and community programs to enhance the quality of life for those living with physical disabilities.
Study Rationale
Following a transfemoral amputation, many patients face chronic mobility challenges, especially when navigating uneven terrains such as ramps or transitioning from sitting to standing. Traditional microprocessor knees have made significant advancements in providing stability and safety; however, there remains a gap in helping users tackle demanding physical tasks. BionicM's Bio Leg is engineered to offer powered assistance, potentially reducing fatigue and improving users' overall mobility experience. This study will generate objective data regarding the effectiveness of powered knee technology on movement quality and efficiency.
Overview of the Study
The primary focus of this pilot study is to evaluate the functional mobility of participants using the Bio Leg in comparison to their existing microprocessor-controlled prostheses. A combination of clinical testing methods, biomechanical assessments, and patient-reported measures will be employed to capture a comprehensive understanding of mobility performance.
Testing is set to occur at Brooks Rehabilitation facilities, incorporating resources like the Brooks Motion Analysis Center, which is renowned for its advanced assessment methodology and research infrastructure. The aim is to obtain robust data that reflects multiple facets of mobility performance and user satisfaction.
Leadership Team and Study Design
An interdisciplinary team at Brooks Rehabilitation is steering the research, including physical therapists, physicians, and biomechanical specialists with extensive knowledge in amputee rehabilitation. The study is led by Emily J. Fox, PhD, DPT, MHS, who heads the neuromuscular research at Brooks Rehabilitation, with clinical guidance from Howard Weiss, DO, the medical director of the Amputee Program.
Utilizing a within-subject comparative design, the study will involve adults with unilateral transfemoral amputations who will first be assessed using their regular prosthetics before a subsequent evaluation after they have acclimated to the Bio Leg. This method aims to evaluate not only the mobility and endurance outcomes but also the functional performance of the Bio Leg compared to existing knee technologies.
Emily J. Fox, PhD, emphasizes the importance of this research: "This study reflects a collaborative effort that rigorously evaluates powered prosthetic knee technology through established clinical and biomechanical methods. Our goal is to provide high-quality data aimed at informing clinicians, researchers, and individuals with limb loss about the potential benefits of advanced prosthetic technologies."
In parallel, Howard Weiss, DO, reflects on his experiences with the Bio Leg, noting promising outcomes and its intuitive operation compared to other prosthetic options. The results of this important study will be analyzed and disseminated through scientific and clinical channels once data collection concludes, paving the way for potential advancements in prosthetic design and rehabilitation practices.
About BionicM USA LLC
Founded in 2018 as a spinoff from the University of Tokyo, BionicM has emerged from pioneering research undertaken during Sunny Xiaojun Sun's doctoral studies. The company is backed by JST’s START program and is committed to creating advanced powered microprocessor knees. With a mission to "Power Mobility for All," BionicM aims to enhance mobility and improve the quality of life for individuals with lower-limb amputations through its innovative technology.
About Brooks Rehabilitation
Established over 55 years ago, Brooks Rehabilitation is a nonprofit organization based in Jacksonville, Florida, recognized nationally for its comprehensive physical rehabilitation care. It operates several inpatient hospitals across Florida and continues to expand its services with a new facility opening soon. Brooks is heavily involved in research and technological advancements in the rehabilitation field, providing outpatient services and community programs to enhance the quality of life for those living with physical disabilities.
Topics Health）
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