How to build the ideal prosthesis for short BKA (below-knee amputation)
Following my accident and short amputation at age 17, finding a suitable prosthetic solution proved challenging due to my 3-inch below-knee residual limb. Early in my journey, however, I was fortunate to connect with a WWII veteran prosthetist who had a similar amputation. He crafted an innovative prosthetic approach that set me on the path to success, one I’ve continued to refine over the years. Thanks to this, I’ve stayed active and achieved great results. Today, I’m dedicated to sharing what I’ve learned and accomplish with fellow BKA-short worldwide, helping them design their ideal prosthesis.
Here’s what you can expect from this webspace:
- Understand the challenge of Short Below Knee Amputation (3-6”)
- Help short below-knee amputee build their optimum prosthesis
- Take control of design & configurations to stay active & independent
- Utilize tricks & adaptations from my years of trials and experience
- Remedy the punishing impact of limping on your spine, hip, hip-floor
Amputation residuals of 3”-6” are too short to leverage any standard BK prosthesis. After a head start from a WWII veteran, I have added my own tricks and adaptations over the years. My 3” residual operates my 24” performance prosthesis; it weighs 2.2 pounds and carries my 6-foot, 200-pound body around with each step. Thinking creatively, using ordinary practices and common components, along with my own adjustments and modifications, I have been able to live an active lifestyle, including work, family, and other activities. I continue to ride my bicycle and motorcycle, ski and work out, work on my cars and do my own home improvement projects, etc. In this webspace, you too will learn how.
Note: Please excuse some of the formatting and wordiness in this webspace, as this was a White Paper turned into a website.