As microprocessor-controlled knees (MPK) and feet (MPF) are established as the standard of care for people with lower-limb amputations, it is crucial that the clinical benefits of the devices be accurately described and fully understood. MPKs produce significant improvements to hip, knee, and ankle kinetic symmetry compared to non-MPKs, normalizing gait and reducing the risk of osteoarthritis.1-3 MPF allow for adaptation to uneven or sloped terrain, increasing stability, and reducing peak pressures within the socket.4 However, the ability of MPKs and MPF to prevent falls, and fall-related injuries, is perhaps the most important clinical benefit. In 2013, Kahle et al. reported non-MPK users have an 82 percent probability of falling per year, while MPK users have only a 26 percent probability.5 In 2017, Liu et al. completed analysis that suggested non-MPK users were at much greater risk for injury than MPK users.
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