NEW TECHNOLOGIES 2008 New Technology for Upper Extremity Amputees A Step Ahead Prosthetics is now an official provider of the Touch Bionics i-limb system.  The i- LIMB Hand is the first prosthetic device with five individually powered digits. The i-LIMB Hand was developed using leading edge mechanical engineering techniques and is manufactured using high strength plastics. The i-Limb is a next generation prosthetic device that is lightweight and highly appealing to both patients and healthcare professionals.
 The i-LIMB Hand is controlled by a unique, highly intuitive control system that uses a traditional two-input myoelectric (muscle signal) to open and close the hands life-like fingers. Myoelectric controls utilize the electrical signal generated by the muscles in the remaining portion of the patient’s limb. This signal is picked up by electrodes that sit on the surface of the skin. Existing users of myoelectric prosthetic hands are able to quickly adapt to the system and can master the i-LIMB functionality within minutes.
In addition to the i-LIMB hand, Touch Bionics has developed the Pro Digit Finger to replace individual digits in a patient’s hand. For more information on this exciting new technology for upper extremity amputees contact our office to speak to one of our prosthetists. You can also find more information about the i-LIMB hand and pro digit finger at Touch Bionics website including videos of patients using the i-LIMB. http://www.touchbionics.com/professionals.php?PHPSESSID=faea529ab09f28cb2e9520f6cbc4aeab http://www.touchbionics.com/professionals.php?pageid=44§ion=5
2007  New Innovations in Above Knee Prosthetics A Step Ahead is continuing to create new innovations in customized prostheses. Through modifications in socket design and fabrication, alignment, knee joints, custom attachments to the bicycle pedal, the cycling prosthesis allows the athlete to distribute more direct application of power and force to the pedal while using their musculature in the most effective and efficient way possible. The cycling prostheses are built with the lightest weight carbon composite materials, incorporating aerodynamic design, custom knee components and custom built pedal adapters.
***Hover your mouse over the picture to the right for a close-up of the bike leg:
To view more pictures of lower extremity prosthesis, click HERE to jump to our galleries.
The Proprio Foot & Ankle System: In our continued effort to assist patients to live life without limitations, we have begun fitting the Proprio Foot by Ossur. A Step Ahead is one of the first private facilities in the world to be authorized by Ossur to fit the Proprio foot. The Proprio foot and ankle system is the first powered prosthesis for below the knee amputees. This new technology incorporates artificial intelligence and terrain logic, which improves mobility and reduces energy expenditure. If you are interested in finding out more about the Proprio foot and ankle system, call A Step Ahead for a free consultation. For more detailed information on this exciting new technology, call and speak to one of our prosthetists, or go to the following link: http://bionics.ossur.com
 The New C-leg: Otto Bock has recently launched its newest update to the C-leg. It has been redesigned and now includes a wireless remote to allow the patient to switch between modes, an electronic lock for standing, and a third mode that allows the user to slightly adjust the knee’s function for a variety of activities. For more information about the C-leg, call and speak to one of our prosthetists or visit: www.ottobockus.com/PRODUCTS/LOWER_LIMB_PROSTHETICS/c-leg.asp2006
A Step Ahead slated to become one of the only facilities in the world to demo and test new bionic ankle-foot system. 2004
Erik Schaffer demos and provides feedback regarding seal-in liner technology that develops into new above-knee liner system. 2003
Erik Schaffer 1 of only 7 prosthetists world-wide invited by Ossur to participate in development process of new line of pediatric liners. Live Life without Limitations! | 
