Innovation Rooted in Technology, Inspired by People
Our Design Philosophy Begins with the User: What problems do people who wear prosthetic devices face every day that can be improved through technology?
This question continues to push us to develop technology that raises the standard for prosthetic users and moves the industry forward.
The Challenges Facing People Who Wear Prosthetic Legs
Lower limb amputation can affect gait dynamics and increase loads on the remaining joints, among other comorbidities. Knee osteoarthritis is 17 times more common in below-knee amputees compared to the general population. For diabetic or dysvascular amputees, increased loads can also contribute to foot ulcers, potentially requiring further surgery.
Pro-Flex is a step in the right direction.
Compared to a conventional energy storing and return feet, Pro-Flex feet are designed to create exceptional mechanical power and range of ankle motion to reduce stress on the sound side.
Over a lifetime of steps, the potential health benefits are clear.
All Pro-Flex feet use a proprietary, unique 3-blade design and footblade, which enhance range-of-motion and energy return compared to a conventional energy storing and return foot which often only use a 2-blade design. Full effective toe length and design contribute to a more fluid and natural progression
Pro-Flex feet are the latest innovation in the development of prosthetic foot technology. Developed in the 1980s, the Flex-Foot was the first carbon fiber, energy-storing and returning (ESAR) prosthetic foot and a huge quality of life improvement from the previous standard, SACH feet. Össur acquired Flex-Foot in 2000 and built on that technology platform, coming out with the Pro-Flex Pivot which formed the basis of the technology platform for the Pro-Flex family. Since then, the Pro-Flex family has expanded with different users and their needs in mind.
Pro-Flex Terra (2024)
Pro-Flex Terra is a multi-blade prosthetic foot featuring an innovative pre-compressed top blade and a soft heel. It offers a truly unique combination of softness and flexibility associated with low-active feet, and extraordinary energy return associated with high-active feet. It enables users to be in full command regardless of speed.
Learn MorePro-Flex ST (2022)
This versatile prosthetic foot provides a smooth rollover and controlled push off. Pro-Flex ST makes it easy to go through the full stride on different terrains thanks to its multifunctional design, combining dynamics and ground compliance. It has a sleek profile and is rated waterproof, which means it is fully resistant to both chlorine and saltwater submersion.
Learn MorePro-Flex Modular (2022)
Pro-Flex Modular is a lightweight, shank height adjustable prosthetic foot, minimizing the need for additional components. This versatile waterproof prosthetic foot provides a smooth rollover and controlled push off making it easy to go through the full stride on different terrains thanks to its multifunctional design, combining dynamics and ground compliance.
Learn MorePro-Flex LP Align (2017)
Pro-Flex LP Align integrates up to 7 cm of easy push-button heel height adjustability with the dynamics of the 3-blade Pro-Flex design. So users can maintain proper alignment across a variety of everyday footwear, from sandals and bare feet to sneakers and dress shoes.
Learn MorePro-Flex LP & LP Torsion (2016)
Featuring a low profile 3-blade system, Pro-Flex LP generates a best-in-class blend of energy return and range-of-motion that is comparable to a standard height foot. Pro-Flex LP is rated Waterproof and fully resistant to chlorine and saltwater submersion.
Learn MorePro-Flex XC & Pro-Flex XC Torsion (2016)
With a unique 3-blade, dual c-shape design, Pro-Flex XC offers exceptional energy return and range-of-motion for everyday users and demanding users alike. An optional torsion unit provides shock absorption and rotation, enabling a wide variety of activities. Pro-Flex XC is rated Waterproof, which means it is fully resistant to both chlorine and salt water submersion.
Learn MorePro-Flex Pivot (2015)
Building off the technology behind Vari-Flex, we launched the Pro-Flex Pivot. Developed with enhanced protection of the sound side in mind, Pro-Flex Pivot is an innovative multi-blade prosthetic foot, featuring a unique pivot mechanism that produces a highly natural gait, excellent range of ankle motion and powered push-off without a motor.
Learn MoreVari-Flex (1980)
Van Phillips launched the Vari-Flex Foot, the first carbon fiber prosthetic foot that becomes the standard in prosthetic care.
After acquiring Flex-Foot, Össur continued to iterate on the Vari-Flex technology, launching a number of feet under the Vari-Flex name.
Learn MoreThe Pro-Flex DNA
Full Length Asymmetric Footblade + Split Toe
Full effective toe length and design contribute to a more fluid and natural progression from heel strike to toe off than a conventional energy storing and return foot.
Three-Blade Design
All Pro-Flex feet use a proprietary, unique 3-blade design, which enhance range-of-motion and energy return compared to a conventional energy storing and return foot which often only use a 2-blade design.
A Foot for Everyone
Each Pro-Flex carbon fiber prosthetic foot is developed with different users and their unique challenges in mind. Factors like build height, activity level, lifestyle and finances are all important considerations when selecting a foot.
Meet Our Feet
It all started with Pro-Flex Pivot which utilized the 3-blade design that forms the basis of the Pro-Flex DNA. Last year, we brought the Pro-Flex Terra to market with new innovations like a pre-compressed top blade and snap-on foot cover. All Pro-Flex feet are designed with specific user profiles in mind and utilize sophisticated engineering to address the specific problems that people who wear prosthetic feet face.
Pro-Flex Pivot
Making Walking Easier for a Decade
Pro-Flex XC & Pro-Flex XC Torsion
The Industry Standard ESAR Foot
Pro-Flex LP Align
Heel Height Adjustable Up to 7 cm
Pro-Flex Terra
Unparalleled Versatility and Energy Return
Pro-Flex LP and Pro-Flex LP Torsion
Best-in-Class Low Profile Foot
Pro-Flex ST
Smooth rollover and controlled push off
Pro-Flex Modular
Customizable Shank Height
Quality of Life Improvements for Prosthetic Foot Covers
Building off user feedback and collaboration with users and clinicians including prosthetist and Paralympian, Markus Rehm, we developed a new foot cover for Pro-Flex Terra. An easy-to-use snap-on foot cover gives users the ability to quickly remove the cover for cleaning and the SandalFix accessory is available to allow users to securely wear open heel footwear by securely attaching the heel of the foot cover to the sandal.
Unity for All
Whether an above-knee or below-knee, low active or high active, mechanical or microprocessor solution is required, the Unity Sleeveless Vacuum System offers the flexibility to combine a variety of Össur feet and knees to achieve the desired combination of equipment for each unique user.
Adding an elevated vacuum system to a prosthesis with a Seal-In liner leads to:
- Reduced pistoning 3,4,5
- Reduced volume fluctuations 10,14
- Improved balance 15
- Reduced risk of falls 15,16
Designed with the user’s comfort in mind, Unity controls the stump volume by reducing fluctuations in the residual limb and improves socket fit for greater comfort.
Note: Unity is not available for Pro-Flex LP Align, Pro-Flex Terra, and Pro-Flex Modular.
Learn More
Curious to learn how to incorporate Pro-Flex feet into your practice? Fill out the form below and get more information about how to pair the right Pro-Flex with your patients.
References
- W. L. Childers and S. R. Wurdeman, “Chapter 42: Transtibial Amputation: Prosthetic Management,” in Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deficiencies, vol. 2016, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
- M. D. Muller, “Chapter 46: Transfemoral Amputation: Prosthetic Management,” in Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deficiencies, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2016.
- W. J. Board, G. M. Street, and C. Caspers, “A comparison of trans‐tibial amputee suction and vacuum socket conditions,” Prosthet. Orthot. Int., vol. 25, no. 3, pp. 202–209, Jan. 2001, doi: 10.1080/03093640108726603.
- B. J. Darter, K. Sinitski, and J. M. Wilken, “Axial bone–socket displacement for persons with a traumatic transtibial amputation: The effect of elevated vacuum suspension at progressive body-weight loads,” Prosthet. Orthot. Int., p. 0309364615605372, Sep. 2015, doi: 10.1177/0309364615605372.
- G. K. Klute, J. S. Berge, W. Biggs, S. Pongnumkul, Z. Popovic, and B. Curless, “Vacuum-Assisted Socket Suspension Compared With Pin Suspension for Lower Extremity Amputees: Effect on Fit, Activity, and Limb Volume,” Arch. Phys. Med. Rehabil., vol. 92, no. 10, pp. 1570–1575, Oct. 2011, doi: 10.1016/j.apmr.2011.05.019.
- Safari, M. R. & Meier, M. R. Systematic review of effects of current transtibial prosthetic socket designs-Part 1: Qualitative outcomes. J. Rehabil. Res. Dev. 52, 491–508 (2015).
- Gholizadeh, H., Abu Osman, N. A., Eshraghi, A. & Ali, S. Transfemoral prosthesis suspension systems: a systematic review of the literature. Am. J. Phys. Med. Rehabil. 93, 809–823 (2014).
- Gholizadeh, H., Abu Osman, N. A., Eshraghi, A., Ali, S. & Razak, N. A. Transtibial prosthesis suspension systems: systematic review of literature. Clin. Biomech. Bristol Avon 29, 87–97 (2014).
- Highsmith, M. J. & Highsmith, J. T. Chapter 56: Skin Problems in the Amputee. in Atlas of Amputations and Limb Deficiencies 677–696 (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2016).
- Baars, E. C. T. & Geertzen, J. H. B. Literature review of the possible advantages of silicon liner socket use in trans-tibial prostheses. Prosthet. Orthot. Int. 29, 27–37 (2005).
- Dickinson, A. S., Steer, J. W. & Worsley, P. R. Finite element analysis of the amputated lower limb: A systematic review and recommendations. Med. Eng. Phys. 43, 1–18 (2017).
- Klute, G. K., Glaister, B. C. & Berge, J. S. Prosthetic liners for lower limb amputees: a review of the literature. Prosthet. Orthot. Int. 34, 146–153 (2010).
- K. Carroll, “Lower Extremity Socket Design and Suspension,” Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 31–48, Feb. 2006, doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2005.11.001.
- J. Goswami, R. Lynn, G. Street, and M. Harlander, “Walking in a vacuum-assisted socket shifts the stump fluid balance,” Prosthet. Orthot. Int., vol. 27, no. 2, pp. 107–113, 2003.
- C. B. Samitier, L. Guirao, M. Costea, J. M. Camós, and E. Pleguezuelos, “The benefits of using a vacuum-assisted socket system to improve balance and gait in elderly transtibial amputees,” Prosthet. Orthot. Int., vol. 40, no. 1, pp. 83–88, Feb. 2016, doi: 10.1177/0309364614546927.
- N. J. Rosenblatt and T. Ehrhardt, “The effect of vacuum assisted socket suspension on prospective, community-based falls by users of lower limb prostheses,” Gait Posture, vol. 55, pp. 100–104, Jun. 2017, doi: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2017.03.038.
- S. Ali, N. A. Abu Osman, M. M. Naqshbandi, A. Eshraghi, M. Kamyab, and H. Gholizadeh, “Qualitative study of prosthetic suspension systems on transtibial amputees’ satisfaction and perceived problems with their prosthetic devices.,” Arch. Phys. Med. Rehabil., vol. 93, no. 11, pp. 1919–23, Nov. 2012.