Let's Talk Running Prosthetics
Prosthetic advancements have enabled professional and recreational adaptive participants to engage in running. These advancements have allowed professional athletes to gain recognition on a world stage. Running feet come in a variety of designs and configurations. Some feet come complete with a toe and a heel section and others the toe section only, which are commonly known as ‘blades’.
Blade designs are generally used by individuals for sprinting or distance running, which requires the prosthetic to mimic a ‘running on toes’ action. Running prosthetics are also made in different shapes according to the type of running.
Sprint prosthetics are often made in a ‘j’ shape. The ‘j’ shape exhibits a quick return of energy, like a spring, which supports the athlete to run at higher speeds. Specialised sole pads can be added to the sole of the blade to assist with traction.
Ottock and Ossur are two leading prosthetic developers who are paving the way for many exciting advancements for people who have experienced limb loss. These advancements have empowered many athletes to be recognised on a world stage, and are inspiring others to push the boundaries too. They have even developed junior options as well. You can view more of their sports lines on the Ottobock and Ossur websites.
Prosthetics require correct alignment and set up to ensure they are moving correctly. They also require maintenance to prevent injury. Limbs 4 Life supports people who have experienced an amputation. They have information about prosthetic services and where to find them in Australia on their website.
Independence for Visually Impaired Runners
Commonly, runners with a visual impairment rely on a support person to run beside them to navigate. But, what happens when a support person isn’t available? The person simply can’t run. Technology is changing that!
I came across a new item of technology: The Wayband, by Wearworks. The Wayband is a wrist band device, that looks a bit like a watch and can be fastened on the wrist or upper arm. The band operates by using GPS signal which creates a virtual ‘corridor’. If the person goes off track, the band will signal by exhibiting haptic vibrations. If there are no vibrations, this means the person is on the right track. The band is still in pilot stages of testing, launching in April 2021. A blind marathon runner, named Simon Wheatcroft has been testing it out with fantastic results. View his story here.
The beauty about this technology is that it can be used by people requiring navigation for running or for those who are just out for a casual stroll! This is amazing innovation, enabling people with a visual impairment to walk or run with freedom and piece of mind that they’re on the right track.
Find out more about the Wayband on the Wearworks website.
