Q: What is the difference between LIMBS International and LEGS? What about the LEGS M1 Knee and the LIMBS Knee?

A: Please see our history section for a more detailed explanation.

 

Q: What is the difference between the LIMBS Knees, and other prosthetic knee joints in the developing world?

A: The largest difference is functionality. Our knee has been proven in the field to be more functional than current designs used in the developing world, such as the single-axis ICRC Knee. The LIMBS four-bar polycentric knee combines a sophisticated design made with low cost durable materials that are widely available in the developing world.  The robust construction allows our knee to withstand harsh climates and treatment.  We also use a simplified fabrication process so that the knee can be locally fabricated and/or repaired in workshops located in the developing world. The end result is a low cost, durable prosthetic knee joint that does not sacrifice performance.  For a more detailed explanation, please view some of our literary papers.

 

Q: How long does it take to locally fabricate a LIMBS Knee?

A: A LIMBS Knee can be fabricated on-site, using locally available materials and tools in 3 to 6 hours by an individual with sufficient training and experience. If an "assembly line" is established with a larger number of tools, jigs and personnel, the time for fabrication can be reduced. 

 

Q:  I am a Prosthetist in the developing world (or someone involved with a prosthetics clinic or organization).  What are the different ways that I and my organization or clinic can be involved with LIMBS?

A:  Some organizations or facilities are well suited to be a LIMBS host site for technology certification workshops (TCWs). Others may be involved as practitioners and/or fabricators of LIMBS prosthetics components. For more information, please click here.

 

Q:  I am an ABC/BOC trained and certified Prosthetist practicing in the developing world.  How can I be involved with LIMBS?

A:  You can be certified as a LIMBS practitioner once you accomplish a few simple prerequisites. Please click here  for more information on how you and your organization or facility may be involved.

 

Q: What is a LIMBS Technology Certification Workshop (TCW)?

A: At host sites strategically located around the world, LIMBS certifies practitioners to fabricate and fit our components onto patients. The certification process involves a week-long course called a Technology Certification Workshop, or TCW.

 

Q: Who conducts the LIMBS TCWs?

A: Currently, the LIMBS Staff travels to all international host sites to oversee any TCW’s. Our engineers teach fabrication.  The application, integration and alignment of our components is taught by our Staff Prosthetist, Riccardo Gonzales and/or volunteer Prosthetists from our network of trained volunteer CPO’s. We currently have 7 host sites around the world that have successfully hosted a TCW.

 

Q: Can I buy the LIMBS Knee?

A: Yes, but there are certain criteria that must be met.

• All ABC/BOC certified Prosthetists can be certified as a LIMBS practitioner without attending a LIMBS TCW. They can buy the LIMBS Knee for relief work in the developing world ONLY. Please click here , fill out the form, and we will contact you regarding your options.  
• If you are a Prosthetist from the developing world, you must become a certified practitioner at a LIMBS TCW in order to purchase the LIMBS Knee. If you would like to become a practitioner of LIMBS technology, please click here.

 

Q: I’m not a Prosthetist, but I am still interested in volunteering with LIMBS? What can I do to get involved?

A: Please visit the volunteer opportunities section of our website, here

 

Q: I’m interested in volunteering for LIMBS, but concerned about my costs…what can I do?

A: There are several options. If you are interested in volunteering for LIMBS but are concerned about the cost, please contact us to discuss financial options. You can also raise your own funds by having friends and family “sponsor a volunteer”.