A new electronically controlled knee joint can restore walking ability to patients suffering leg paralysis due to stroke or polio.

The award-winning E-MAG Active system from Otto Bock Healthcare is now available on the NHS.

Jane Rutterford, a retired mother of two from Essex, has become the first UK patient to benefit from this innovative device, experiencing a regular walking pattern for the first time since suffering polio at age nine.

The E-MAG Active uses intelligent sensor technology to monitor the position of the wearer's leg while walking, making sure that the knee locks and unlocks at the right times.

The device works independently of the ankle joint or sole of the foot, supporting mobility in patients with no ankle or foot functionality.

"Wearing the E-MAG is like having therapy while getting on with your life, offering me excellent support to do the things I love doing such as gardening," said Jane Rutterford. "It's essential for me as a person to be as independent as possible, and as it's so comfortable I can wear it all day every day. It's become an integral part of my life; the support it gives me is terrific."

David Buchanan, Business Development Manager of Otto Bock Healthcare, said: "Post-Polio Syndrome affects around 100,000 people in the UK, while approximately a further 300,000 people are living with moderate to severe disabilities as a result of stroke. Orthoses such as those designed by Otto Bock aid and enhance the recovery process."

E-MAG Active received the 2009 award for 'Prosthetic or Orthotic Product Innovation' from The Limbless Association.

Otto Bock is a leading supplier of innovative solutions for people with limited mobility.

 
Jane Rutterford

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