Intuitive standing support
A function intended to maintain balance in everyday movements, aiming for the knee to respond to the situation while standing and during the support phase.
What is stance phase support?
Walking consists of the stance phase, in which the leg is on the ground and carries the body weight, and the swing phase, in which the leg moves forward through the air. Stance phase support aims for a microprocessor-controlled knee system to keep the knee under control while standing and bearing weight, and to help the person maintain their balance.
This function aims to detect with sensors the moments when the person starts to stand or put weight on something, and for the knee to provide appropriate resistance against bending. In this way, the aim is for movement to feel more stable in situations such as standing upright, bending over or working on a task while standing. The contribution of this behavior to the person is individual and is assessed by the specialist team.
What does it aim for?
The headings below introduce the general functions of stance phase support; the contribution of each function to the person is assessed individually.
Safety while standing
Controlled behavior of the knee while standing upright and waiting aims to support a sense of confidence in everyday situations.
Bearing weight
The aim is to keep the knee stable at moments when body weight is placed on the prosthetic side.
Sloped and uneven ground
It is intended to help maintain balance while standing on slopes or irregular ground.
Flexibility in stance
In some situations, the knee being able to remain stable in a slightly bent position is intended to support a relaxed stance.
Reducing fatigue
A function intended to contribute to less strain in situations where the person stands for a long time.
Individual adjustment
Adjusting the settings to the person's walking pattern and needs supports making effective use of the function.
How can it help in daily life?
The examples below describe general situations; each person's experience and benefit may differ.
A relaxed stance
It is intended to support a balanced stance at moments such as standing upright without leaning on anything and engaging with one's surroundings.
Standing on uneven ground
It is intended to contribute to maintaining balance while standing in the garden or on ground that is not level.
Chatting while standing
It is intended to support focusing on the moment itself instead of constantly thinking about balance while standing somewhere and talking.
Picking up a child
Stable behavior of the knee in situations where the load changes is intended to help the person feel more secure.
How does this support work?
Microprocessor-controlled knee systems continuously evaluate walking and standing through sensors. When the person puts weight on the prosthetic side or starts to stand, the system aims to ensure that the knee provides appropriate resistance against bending. This behavior is intended to adapt to the various situations in which the person remains standing.
- The aim is to keep the knee under control at moments of standing and bearing weight.
- It seeks to contribute to maintaining balance on slopes and uneven ground.
- Adjusting the settings to the person and regular check-ups are important for safe use of the function.
Frequently asked questions
For whom is stance phase support considered?
Suitability is assessed individually by the specialist physician and team, taking into account the person's amputation level, activity level, safety needs and general state of health.
Does this function make standing completely safe?
Stance phase support aims to help maintain balance; however, safe movement depends on the person's condition, the settings and gait training. Consult your physician for a personal assessment.
How are the settings made?
System settings are made after fitting by the specialist team according to the person's walking pattern and needs; they can be updated with regular check-ups.
This content is for information purposes only; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Fittings are carried out at our licensed center addresses in line with a specialist physician's prescription/medical report.
