I once found myself with out a good fitting prosthesis, no job and very little money. It was the end of 2006, I had been an amputee for less than a year and I was let go from the company I was working for with no notice. The socket to the leg I was wearing was so loose that I was wearing over 35 ply in prosthetic socks to keep it working properly. I had no medical insurance and I was scared.
Even though times were tough I have to tell you this was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned that with some determination and perspiration you can accomplish anything. From that day on I vowed never to be put in a powerless position again.
In less than a years time I did some incredible things...
I found a job with a startup company. In the year that I worked for this company I fabricated and adjusted my own prosthesis, I ran a half marathon, I completed a 100 mile bicycle ride, I was interviewed by the TV news, I had a couple of articles written about me in the news paper, I designed a company brochure, I built a website, I rode my bicycle from Austin TX to Atlanta GA and I created and edited my first YouTube video.
None of my projects has ever been perfect, but they have all been works of passion, some that I have been very proud of. The coolest thing about a project you decide to take on is that you have total control over it. The completion, success and failure of any of my creation always in in my own hands. So even though I may not be a professional editor, media expert, publisher or technician I put my heart into my work. I also always learn a lot in the process.
I have found that the more work you put into something the more you get out of it.
I get some criticism once in a while, some of it is warranted. I certainly have made and will continue to make my share of mistakes. I also get complemented a lot. Some of the best compliments have come from people in the medical community, patients, other amputees, and regular people. I have the occasional friend remind me of how cheesy I am from time to time to keep me grounded. :)
The very best compliment in the world is emulation. Some of my ideals have been "borrowed" from people. One individual I used to work with now uses the term 'Patient Advocate' in their title, which they did not use when I was working with them. I didn't coin the term, but I certainly started using it first. Another former employer started making YouTube videos not long after I began putting them out. Once again this is nothing new, but I am pretty sure my videos had something to do with motivating them to create their own. I had another marketing person that I used to work around that decided to run a half marathon after I did one. Once again I am not saying that they stole my ideal, but I am pretty sure I helped motivate or inspire them.
What can I say? I can be bitter and feel ripped off or I can be happy and glad that I helped motivate someone? Believe me, I have borrowed and continue to borrow ideals all the time. I draw inspiration from many different sources. In total honesty, imitation is the best form of flattery. So I feel honored and humbled that maybe I helped encourage someone to 'do' something or start their own project.
I have learned over time that hoarding ideals is petty. No one owns ideals...ideals should be shared and used to build new ideals. This is how things advance. This is one reason why I am such an advocate for the free movement of information. Throughout this site I have made it a goal to form a lot of links that deal with open source software, streaming media, manuals, instructional videos and many other (sometimes unorthodox) informational links.
There is so much knowledge and information out there. If you have the time, means and passion why not build/design/start your own _______? [fill in the blank with something you have always wanted to do]. Life is for learning and growing. There is no reason why any of us should be held back from reaching our full potential by not engaging in something we are passionate about.
Of course you can always hire someone? There is always a good chance a person will have better equipment and more knowledge on how to do something. The real question is will they have your vision? To complete your project? The way you want?
The best way to empower yourself is through information. There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you need it, because we can't do everything ourselves. I do think we should pursue what we are inspired by though.
You have to admit there is a beauty to taking things into your own hands.
Just look at the things I was able to accomplish in just one short year...
My name is Ty Wilson.
I am a left leg below the knee amputee.
I post blogs about life as an amputee and amputee quality of life issues.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
An Athletic Event Every Week
I have not worked out consistently since I have been living in Florida. There I said it! So now that it is out there maybe I will do something about it???
There are all kinds of reasons I can give. One being that I hurt myself and had to take some time off from training. Another, that my bike has been in the shop for some time. Yet another, that the weather has not been very good. Bottom line...I have been lazy. I got frustrated and quit training.
Instead of going to the gym to work off some steam I have been going to the bar. I found a couple of nice wine bars here in the area to hang out at along with a couple of cool beach side tiki bars. It is really a shame because there are so many nice places here in Florida to train. I have become a regular at the bar instead of at the gym. A gym employee recently commented that he had not seen me around much lately.
Unfortunately for me, something like a glass of wine should be enjoyed in moderation. Instead, binge drinking has become a weekly or bi-weekly event for me. It makes me sick to think of all the money I have blown going out drinking and eating unhealthy food. It's easy to want to slip into Margarita Ville out here in the land of beaches.Hopefully I will soon find more moderation in my life.
So here I am, a weight gain of about 10 to 15 lbs since I have moved out here. I was in decent shape from a ton of cycling when I came in late October. I still felt I was a good 15 lbs over what I consider a great weight for me, before my recent gain. I am currently sitting in the 215-220 lbs range. I feel my best when I am around 190-185 lbs.
About two months ago I posted a running/work out schedule that I was following. I wanted to train for another half marathon this year. I got about a month into it and realized I wasn't making the gains I wanted to and I probably would not be ready for the event. So, instead of continuing to train I stopped.I pulled down the listings and progress reports in sheer embarrassment. In reality I probably took on more than I could handle. Getting ready for a half marathon in less than 3 months without already being in any kind of running shape was probably pushing it. I wasn't enjoying working out. Running until the pain stops doesn't work like it did in my 20's.
I really have let myself down. All I can do is try to start from scratch and start over.
So here is what I have decided to do.
Starting next weekend I am going to enter an athletic event of some type every weekend. Whether it is a 5k/10k run or bike ride. I am going to post pics or video clips of the event on-line. I will also be linking a Public Google Calender that shows all events I will be participating in.
I really want accountability here. So those of you that are true and dear friends. I would love to hear from you...I usually don't ask for anything, but I need encouragement as well as chastising if I don't follow through.
I know an athletic event every week is a regular thing for some people out there, while for others it is an unheard of challenge.
Of course because of my current physical shape I will need to start small. As far as running goes, which is definitely my Achilles heel...lol...there are not many events shorter than a 5k, which I'm currently not in shape for either. The beginning is going to be a little painful. I do not expect to run anything faster than about 12-11minute miles for a while.
It is going to be a little expensive to pony up entry fees for these events, but I think it will pale in comparison to some of the bar and food tabs I have acquired lately.
My email is tyswilson@gmail.com
I really would love to hear from you with feedback, tips, words of encouragement or questions about what I am up to.
'An event a week keeps you from becoming weak' - Ty
4/12/11
I have encountered a little bit of a set back with training. There is more info on my 'Event A Week Results' page under a heading of 4/12/11. I am definitely not trowing in the towel...just taking some time to make sure I remian healthy for the long run.
There are all kinds of reasons I can give. One being that I hurt myself and had to take some time off from training. Another, that my bike has been in the shop for some time. Yet another, that the weather has not been very good. Bottom line...I have been lazy. I got frustrated and quit training.
Instead of going to the gym to work off some steam I have been going to the bar. I found a couple of nice wine bars here in the area to hang out at along with a couple of cool beach side tiki bars. It is really a shame because there are so many nice places here in Florida to train. I have become a regular at the bar instead of at the gym. A gym employee recently commented that he had not seen me around much lately.
Unfortunately for me, something like a glass of wine should be enjoyed in moderation. Instead, binge drinking has become a weekly or bi-weekly event for me. It makes me sick to think of all the money I have blown going out drinking and eating unhealthy food. It's easy to want to slip into Margarita Ville out here in the land of beaches.Hopefully I will soon find more moderation in my life.
So here I am, a weight gain of about 10 to 15 lbs since I have moved out here. I was in decent shape from a ton of cycling when I came in late October. I still felt I was a good 15 lbs over what I consider a great weight for me, before my recent gain. I am currently sitting in the 215-220 lbs range. I feel my best when I am around 190-185 lbs.
About two months ago I posted a running/work out schedule that I was following. I wanted to train for another half marathon this year. I got about a month into it and realized I wasn't making the gains I wanted to and I probably would not be ready for the event. So, instead of continuing to train I stopped.I pulled down the listings and progress reports in sheer embarrassment. In reality I probably took on more than I could handle. Getting ready for a half marathon in less than 3 months without already being in any kind of running shape was probably pushing it. I wasn't enjoying working out. Running until the pain stops doesn't work like it did in my 20's.
I really have let myself down. All I can do is try to start from scratch and start over.
So here is what I have decided to do.
Starting next weekend I am going to enter an athletic event of some type every weekend. Whether it is a 5k/10k run or bike ride. I am going to post pics or video clips of the event on-line. I will also be linking a Public Google Calender that shows all events I will be participating in.
I really want accountability here. So those of you that are true and dear friends. I would love to hear from you...I usually don't ask for anything, but I need encouragement as well as chastising if I don't follow through.
I know an athletic event every week is a regular thing for some people out there, while for others it is an unheard of challenge.
Of course because of my current physical shape I will need to start small. As far as running goes, which is definitely my Achilles heel...lol...there are not many events shorter than a 5k, which I'm currently not in shape for either. The beginning is going to be a little painful. I do not expect to run anything faster than about 12-11minute miles for a while.
It is going to be a little expensive to pony up entry fees for these events, but I think it will pale in comparison to some of the bar and food tabs I have acquired lately.
My email is tyswilson@gmail.com
I really would love to hear from you with feedback, tips, words of encouragement or questions about what I am up to.
'An event a week keeps you from becoming weak' - Ty
4/12/11
I have encountered a little bit of a set back with training. There is more info on my 'Event A Week Results' page under a heading of 4/12/11. I am definitely not trowing in the towel...just taking some time to make sure I remian healthy for the long run.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Patience Is The Key
Once upon a time typing the words on this document would have taken me many revisions using a bulky typewriter and whiteout. I would have had to take the time look up a lot of words included here using a dictionary. I probably would have asked friends to proofread over it for me to help me with my grammar. My grammar still isn't the best (but there is probably an 'App' for that) and I now have spell checker. Could you imagine the time it would have taken for me to post this, manually mail it or even email it (before blogging started) so that all of you could have had access to it? It would have consumed a lot of my time and energy. It would have pretty much been impossible. My how things have changed and will continue to do so.
In this modern age speed seems to be the key. We have the Internet, fast food, email, text messaging, TiVo, fast forward, GPS, and all other kinds of instant gratification. We can do more things in a faster amount of time than ever before.
So the pressure is on..and time continues to speed up faster and faster...
I have written a blog before about slowing down to enjoy life. What I have not touched upon before is the importance of HAVING PATIENCE in general, but especially as an AMPUTEE.
One of the hardest lessons that becoming an amputee has taught me is patience. There is nothing like waiting 3 months to heal and be fitted for your first prosthetic device. Like any other injury there is therapy and training that must be done to re-learn how to do many things. There is also the constant wait of trying to achieve a life that is as normal as possible again. In reality, a totally normal life may never come to full fruition, but we can strive to come as close as possible. The main thing is that we can overcome enough to get back to living, instead of constantly coping with our disability.
No matter what stage of the amputee experience you are in, it is generally going to take you longer to do things than your able bodied counterparts. Taking a shower, getting dressed, walking, running and just about anything else you can think of are going to take longer than your average four appendage being.
All of your life things will be more tedious than if you had all of your limbs. You will often find a new approach and faster ways to do things. You may even excel and become better at doing a few things than if you had all your limbs. In the end, the extra steps you go through on a daily basis will always involve more steps than for an able bodied person. Therefore you will always have to exert more time and/or energy than an average person of comparable form to do the same task.
While the rest of the world is speeding along, inevitably from time to time an amputee will have to slow down and cope with their unique situation. As noted, the healing process, getting an adjustment, learning to ambulate, wearing your prosthesis all day every day, taking a shower, shopping, getting in/out of your vehicle, getting dressed and many other task can take extra time. Each of these extra moments throughout an average day can wear you down. The main thing is to not get frustrated.
I cannot count the times that being an amputee has tested me. I remember a time recently I was late for a dinner engagement. There I was out in the parking lot hoping up and down trying to get my prosthesis to fit properly. I had to pull my jeans down to get access to my leg and try to adjust it. Looking back, it was kind of funny, but it was very frustrating at the time. Long gone are the days when I could just jump out of the shower, throw on my jeans and be out the door. There are just too many steps involved for things to be that simple.
The thing is, like anyone else, if you don't learn to relax, be patient and slowdown, there can be detrimental consequences. Your health can suffer through high blood pressure and other known/unknown things that stress does to the body. As an amputee you can also hurt yourself by falling, skin break down and other ways from lack of patience. As I always try to remember when things are looking kind of bleak...'man it is great just to be able to get out of bed and walk.'
Along with all the other daily stresses in life an amputee must cope with the extra hindrances that amputation entails. It isn't always easy. You know life in general can be tough once in a while. You must remember that sometimes progress is slow. You will take steps forward and backward throughout the amputee process. Personally I get frustrated all the time. I also have days where I am very satisfied and happy with the progress I have made and continue to make.
Included is a link of ways to Be-Patient
Chinese Proverb - 'If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape 100 days of sorrow.'
Ty
In this modern age speed seems to be the key. We have the Internet, fast food, email, text messaging, TiVo, fast forward, GPS, and all other kinds of instant gratification. We can do more things in a faster amount of time than ever before.
So the pressure is on..and time continues to speed up faster and faster...
I have written a blog before about slowing down to enjoy life. What I have not touched upon before is the importance of HAVING PATIENCE in general, but especially as an AMPUTEE.
One of the hardest lessons that becoming an amputee has taught me is patience. There is nothing like waiting 3 months to heal and be fitted for your first prosthetic device. Like any other injury there is therapy and training that must be done to re-learn how to do many things. There is also the constant wait of trying to achieve a life that is as normal as possible again. In reality, a totally normal life may never come to full fruition, but we can strive to come as close as possible. The main thing is that we can overcome enough to get back to living, instead of constantly coping with our disability.
No matter what stage of the amputee experience you are in, it is generally going to take you longer to do things than your able bodied counterparts. Taking a shower, getting dressed, walking, running and just about anything else you can think of are going to take longer than your average four appendage being.
All of your life things will be more tedious than if you had all of your limbs. You will often find a new approach and faster ways to do things. You may even excel and become better at doing a few things than if you had all your limbs. In the end, the extra steps you go through on a daily basis will always involve more steps than for an able bodied person. Therefore you will always have to exert more time and/or energy than an average person of comparable form to do the same task.
While the rest of the world is speeding along, inevitably from time to time an amputee will have to slow down and cope with their unique situation. As noted, the healing process, getting an adjustment, learning to ambulate, wearing your prosthesis all day every day, taking a shower, shopping, getting in/out of your vehicle, getting dressed and many other task can take extra time. Each of these extra moments throughout an average day can wear you down. The main thing is to not get frustrated.
I cannot count the times that being an amputee has tested me. I remember a time recently I was late for a dinner engagement. There I was out in the parking lot hoping up and down trying to get my prosthesis to fit properly. I had to pull my jeans down to get access to my leg and try to adjust it. Looking back, it was kind of funny, but it was very frustrating at the time. Long gone are the days when I could just jump out of the shower, throw on my jeans and be out the door. There are just too many steps involved for things to be that simple.
The thing is, like anyone else, if you don't learn to relax, be patient and slowdown, there can be detrimental consequences. Your health can suffer through high blood pressure and other known/unknown things that stress does to the body. As an amputee you can also hurt yourself by falling, skin break down and other ways from lack of patience. As I always try to remember when things are looking kind of bleak...'man it is great just to be able to get out of bed and walk.'
Along with all the other daily stresses in life an amputee must cope with the extra hindrances that amputation entails. It isn't always easy. You know life in general can be tough once in a while. You must remember that sometimes progress is slow. You will take steps forward and backward throughout the amputee process. Personally I get frustrated all the time. I also have days where I am very satisfied and happy with the progress I have made and continue to make.
Included is a link of ways to Be-Patient
Chinese Proverb - 'If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape 100 days of sorrow.'
Ty
Saturday, January 15, 2011
The Technology Of Prosthetics
Prosthetics once made from wood now are made of stronger and lighter materials such as carbon fiber, titanium and kevlar. Artificial limbs are more efficient than ever. With the somewhat recent inclusion of myoelectric sensors, microprocessors, hydraulics and other technology we are making truly amazing adaptive devices. If you follow exponential increases in technology, the future of prosthetics along with many other things, is very exciting indeed.
Where We Are We Now
Prosthetic Feet
----------------
The innovation of carbon fiber feet has brought about a lighter, stronger and more efficient foot than ever before. Most prosthetic feet today absorb and return energy due to their 'flex' and 'spring like' properties. Some of these feet offer such great properties that there is a growing consensus they may even give amputees an unfair advantage in some circumstances.
You may be familiar with the controversy involving Paralympian sprinter Oscar Pistorius . The amputee athlete was banned from Olympic trials due to possibly having an 'unfair advantage'. There were concerns that Pistorius' prosthetic feet gave him better than human running capabilities.
Oscar Pistorius 400 Meter Race at the 2008 Paralympic Games.
I personally do not feel that Mr. Pistorius has an advantage over other able bodied athletes. Test on and off the field have shown that he actually may still be at a disadvantage to an able bodied runner. I do feel in time, as technology increasingly advances, an amputee athlete could be at an advantage. If we follow the normal progression in technology, it definitely seems like a possibility. Able bodied athletes will continue to improve as they consistently have over time with better training techniques and equipment. The real question is will advances in artificial limbs surpass those of real ones?
Oscar in a motivational Nike Advertisement.
Prosthetic Arms and Hands
--------------------------------
Myoelectric technology has greatly advanced upper extremity artificial devices. A myoelectric arm works by placing sensors on the wearer's skin. By flexing and contracting muscles where the sensors are placed, the prosthetic device can be controlled. Artificial hand, wrist and elbow movement is possible with the use of multiple sensors.
A 5.5 minute video showing the inner workings of Myoelectric Technology.
With advancements in microprocessors the fine movement of prosthetic arms has become much wider. A user is now able to gently or firmly grab objects and simultaneously use different functions of the arm.
The Utah Arm Video.
More information about the Utah Arm
The first electronic hands would just open and close, like a large pincher. Hands such as the The I-Limb have separate individually powered digits. The multi-articulating I-Limb has has various grip modes which can greatly improve a wearer's quality of life.
Prosthetic Knees
------------------
There are many types of knee systems out there for amputees. The advances in technology, even in non-automated knees has improved vastly. There are manual knees that use variable friction or hydraulics to control knee swing and resistance. These knees offer an assortment of various walking options and stumble recovery.
Microprocessor knees come with technology that can learn the wearers walking patterns. Timing, force and swing sensors take readings multiple times per second as the amputee ambulates. The information provided by the sensors is used instantly to adjust the hydraulic knee accordingly. The knee will swing faster as the walker speeds up, offer more resistance when going down a hill, aid in stumble recovery and so fourth.
Bi-Lateral Amputees attack a ramp using the C-Leg.
Link with info about current microprocessor knees on the market: Electronic Knees
Where Things Are Headed
This section to features devices that are not widely available yet. I wanted to give a view of where prosthetics are headed. Smart prosthetics, like smart phones, are increasingly becoming more intelligent and offering more features.
Prosthetic Feet Of The Future
------------------------------
There are only a few electronic feet currently being mass manufactured at this time. However many prototype feet are in development. While manual feet do mimic some human like movement, researchers are taking electronic feet to the next level.
The Proprio Foot and iWalk are two hi-tech feet currently in production.
Electronic Knees Of The Future
--------------------------------
There are microprocessor knees that currently adjust resistance while a person is walking. Researchers are developing prosthetic knees that push and pull the user, copying muscle movement. A knee that propels a person forward can give additional assistance up a hill, incline or stairs. Making foot over foot ambulation possible.
Links to cutting edge prosthetic knees:
Otto Bock Genium Bionic System
The Otto Bock X2 Knee
The Power Knee
Berkley Robotics Prototype Knee
Osseointegration
------------------
The technology of attaching a prosthesis directly to the human skeletal system is known as osseointegration. It is not a certainty that osseointegration is going to be widely used to fuse prosthetics more closely to the body. There is research being done to explore the feasibility of this technology. Firmly securing a prosthetic device to your limb is essential for efficiency. Presently it is still being debated if the upside the technology offers outweighs many of it's potential risk. Rejection, skeletal damage and infection are some of the possible current side effects of this procedure. None the less, osseointegration along with similar fields of study may eventually lead to creation of a more stable and personal prosthetic device.
Ossointegration Walking
Nerve Controlled Prosthetics
----------------------------
Targeted sensory reinnervation is a surgical processes of installing residual nerves from an amputated limb path into alternative muscle tissue close to the skin. Sensors can be attached to the newly created nerve sites which fire electrical signals to operate a prosthesis.
A video exploring and explaining Reinnervation Technology
Mind Controlled Prosthetics
----------------------------
I did not talk about auditory controlled devices (talk about...auditory...get it???). Those of us that text, speed dial and search the internet using voice commands know it is a reality already. Another signal that is greatly being explored are the electric signals we emit when firing brain neurons. There are many brain controlled prototype devices already being developed for people with spinal cord injuries. Using BCI (brain controlled intrerface) to operate artificial limbs and a whole array of every day devices will be an eventual reality.
University Of Florida Prosthetic Research.
A 14 minute Stanford Lecture On BCI technology.
Robotics
--------------
There isn't much doubt robotics will enevitably become a bigger part of the prosthetic picture. These videos, while not directly related to prosthetics, show some of the applications possible.
Robotic Hand
Violin Playing Robot
Boston Dynamics BIGDOG Robot
SARCOS Exoskeleton Robot
Honda ASIMO Robot
Humanitarian Concerns
Prosthetics For Everyone - Low Tech Prosthetics From High Tech Ideals
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
My favorite thing that technology has accomplished is the economical production of prosthetics for people from all walks of life. There have been many prosthetic feet, knees and sockets developed using modest means. Many affordable prosthetic devices would not be possible if it were not for original research in technology. Futuristic and high tech prosthetics are very cool, but in many cases a low tech device is the best. A person that uses the device minimally due to their physical capabilities, someone that uses a special prosthesis for a recreational activity, an individual that is frequently exposed to the element and when there is no funding present due to an individuals economic circumstances; May all be times when a inexpensive but reliable prosthesis is called for.
Even though these links are not to the latest and greatest prosthetic devices in the world, they are something very dear and close to my heart: making prosthetics available to everyone that needs them.
The $20 Jaipur Knee
2ft Prosthetics - $25 Prosthesis
2ft Prosthetics - Organizational Overview
openprosthetics.org
Prosthetic Arm Made From A Plastic Soda Bottle
The Jaipur Foot
I stand in awe of technological advances that man has made over time. A small amount of technology and a lot of innovations can go a long way toward humanity.As we all know technology can be used for evil and destruction as well. I really feel we are at a crossroads with which way we are going to take society and use technology in the future.
The paradigm of business has changed greatly over the last couple of decades. I think we can all agree that it is still changing due to the information age. It is my wish that technology and information will be freely shared amongst all people, which will in turn lead to even greater advancements.
May All The Change In Your World Be Peaceful And Productive - TyW
Where We Are We Now
Prosthetic Feet
----------------
The innovation of carbon fiber feet has brought about a lighter, stronger and more efficient foot than ever before. Most prosthetic feet today absorb and return energy due to their 'flex' and 'spring like' properties. Some of these feet offer such great properties that there is a growing consensus they may even give amputees an unfair advantage in some circumstances.
You may be familiar with the controversy involving Paralympian sprinter Oscar Pistorius . The amputee athlete was banned from Olympic trials due to possibly having an 'unfair advantage'. There were concerns that Pistorius' prosthetic feet gave him better than human running capabilities.
Oscar Pistorius 400 Meter Race at the 2008 Paralympic Games.
I personally do not feel that Mr. Pistorius has an advantage over other able bodied athletes. Test on and off the field have shown that he actually may still be at a disadvantage to an able bodied runner. I do feel in time, as technology increasingly advances, an amputee athlete could be at an advantage. If we follow the normal progression in technology, it definitely seems like a possibility. Able bodied athletes will continue to improve as they consistently have over time with better training techniques and equipment. The real question is will advances in artificial limbs surpass those of real ones?
Oscar in a motivational Nike Advertisement.
Prosthetic Arms and Hands
--------------------------------
Myoelectric technology has greatly advanced upper extremity artificial devices. A myoelectric arm works by placing sensors on the wearer's skin. By flexing and contracting muscles where the sensors are placed, the prosthetic device can be controlled. Artificial hand, wrist and elbow movement is possible with the use of multiple sensors.
A 5.5 minute video showing the inner workings of Myoelectric Technology.
With advancements in microprocessors the fine movement of prosthetic arms has become much wider. A user is now able to gently or firmly grab objects and simultaneously use different functions of the arm.
The Utah Arm Video.
More information about the Utah Arm
The first electronic hands would just open and close, like a large pincher. Hands such as the The I-Limb have separate individually powered digits. The multi-articulating I-Limb has has various grip modes which can greatly improve a wearer's quality of life.
Prosthetic Knees
------------------
There are many types of knee systems out there for amputees. The advances in technology, even in non-automated knees has improved vastly. There are manual knees that use variable friction or hydraulics to control knee swing and resistance. These knees offer an assortment of various walking options and stumble recovery.
Microprocessor knees come with technology that can learn the wearers walking patterns. Timing, force and swing sensors take readings multiple times per second as the amputee ambulates. The information provided by the sensors is used instantly to adjust the hydraulic knee accordingly. The knee will swing faster as the walker speeds up, offer more resistance when going down a hill, aid in stumble recovery and so fourth.
Bi-Lateral Amputees attack a ramp using the C-Leg.
Link with info about current microprocessor knees on the market: Electronic Knees
Where Things Are Headed
This section to features devices that are not widely available yet. I wanted to give a view of where prosthetics are headed. Smart prosthetics, like smart phones, are increasingly becoming more intelligent and offering more features.
Prosthetic Feet Of The Future
------------------------------
There are only a few electronic feet currently being mass manufactured at this time. However many prototype feet are in development. While manual feet do mimic some human like movement, researchers are taking electronic feet to the next level.
The Proprio Foot and iWalk are two hi-tech feet currently in production.
Electronic Knees Of The Future
--------------------------------
There are microprocessor knees that currently adjust resistance while a person is walking. Researchers are developing prosthetic knees that push and pull the user, copying muscle movement. A knee that propels a person forward can give additional assistance up a hill, incline or stairs. Making foot over foot ambulation possible.
Links to cutting edge prosthetic knees:
Otto Bock Genium Bionic System
The Otto Bock X2 Knee
The Power Knee
Berkley Robotics Prototype Knee
Osseointegration
------------------
The technology of attaching a prosthesis directly to the human skeletal system is known as osseointegration. It is not a certainty that osseointegration is going to be widely used to fuse prosthetics more closely to the body. There is research being done to explore the feasibility of this technology. Firmly securing a prosthetic device to your limb is essential for efficiency. Presently it is still being debated if the upside the technology offers outweighs many of it's potential risk. Rejection, skeletal damage and infection are some of the possible current side effects of this procedure. None the less, osseointegration along with similar fields of study may eventually lead to creation of a more stable and personal prosthetic device.
Ossointegration Walking
Nerve Controlled Prosthetics
----------------------------
Targeted sensory reinnervation is a surgical processes of installing residual nerves from an amputated limb path into alternative muscle tissue close to the skin. Sensors can be attached to the newly created nerve sites which fire electrical signals to operate a prosthesis.
A video exploring and explaining Reinnervation Technology
Mind Controlled Prosthetics
----------------------------
I did not talk about auditory controlled devices (talk about...auditory...get it???). Those of us that text, speed dial and search the internet using voice commands know it is a reality already. Another signal that is greatly being explored are the electric signals we emit when firing brain neurons. There are many brain controlled prototype devices already being developed for people with spinal cord injuries. Using BCI (brain controlled intrerface) to operate artificial limbs and a whole array of every day devices will be an eventual reality.
University Of Florida Prosthetic Research.
A 14 minute Stanford Lecture On BCI technology.
Robotics
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There isn't much doubt robotics will enevitably become a bigger part of the prosthetic picture. These videos, while not directly related to prosthetics, show some of the applications possible.
Robotic Hand
Violin Playing Robot
Boston Dynamics BIGDOG Robot
SARCOS Exoskeleton Robot
Honda ASIMO Robot
Humanitarian Concerns
Prosthetics For Everyone - Low Tech Prosthetics From High Tech Ideals
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My favorite thing that technology has accomplished is the economical production of prosthetics for people from all walks of life. There have been many prosthetic feet, knees and sockets developed using modest means. Many affordable prosthetic devices would not be possible if it were not for original research in technology. Futuristic and high tech prosthetics are very cool, but in many cases a low tech device is the best. A person that uses the device minimally due to their physical capabilities, someone that uses a special prosthesis for a recreational activity, an individual that is frequently exposed to the element and when there is no funding present due to an individuals economic circumstances; May all be times when a inexpensive but reliable prosthesis is called for.
Even though these links are not to the latest and greatest prosthetic devices in the world, they are something very dear and close to my heart: making prosthetics available to everyone that needs them.
The $20 Jaipur Knee
2ft Prosthetics - $25 Prosthesis
2ft Prosthetics - Organizational Overview
openprosthetics.org
Prosthetic Arm Made From A Plastic Soda Bottle
The Jaipur Foot
I stand in awe of technological advances that man has made over time. A small amount of technology and a lot of innovations can go a long way toward humanity.As we all know technology can be used for evil and destruction as well. I really feel we are at a crossroads with which way we are going to take society and use technology in the future.
The paradigm of business has changed greatly over the last couple of decades. I think we can all agree that it is still changing due to the information age. It is my wish that technology and information will be freely shared amongst all people, which will in turn lead to even greater advancements.
May All The Change In Your World Be Peaceful And Productive - TyW
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Value Of Time
I can't believe it is this time of year again. Time seems to get faster and faster as each year passes. My Father once told me time appears to move faster because "as you get older your perception of time changes as you become more aware of how valuable it is". Time becomes a more and more precious commodity because you realize that you have less and less of it. I'm not sure if 'realizing you have less time' is the sole reason it appears to move faster? It definitely seems like it could be a contributing factor?
The value of time is definitely one reason why I try to fully enjoy each day. I posted a quote recently that stated "Be the best you can, because some day you will not be at all". I think it runs true. Life is so short. Things can appear to pass in the blink of an eye. I know it isn't always easy to stay positive, but I think it is a worthy goal to strive for.
If you are a happy person chances are you can make others around you feel happy as well. A positive happy attitude is one of the greatest gifts anyone can share.
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My goals for this upcoming year are pretty simple:
- To get involved in Amputee Advocacy here in the Florida Gulf Coast area.
- To continue my amputee awareness campaign by participating in support groups and posting more instructional videos/blogs.
- To help empower other amputees through eduction and positive lifestyle.
I look forward to a full year of advocacy, outreach, education and FUN!!
Wishing You A Full And Happy Holiday Season. Ty
The value of time is definitely one reason why I try to fully enjoy each day. I posted a quote recently that stated "Be the best you can, because some day you will not be at all". I think it runs true. Life is so short. Things can appear to pass in the blink of an eye. I know it isn't always easy to stay positive, but I think it is a worthy goal to strive for.
If you are a happy person chances are you can make others around you feel happy as well. A positive happy attitude is one of the greatest gifts anyone can share.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My goals for this upcoming year are pretty simple:
- To get involved in Amputee Advocacy here in the Florida Gulf Coast area.
- To continue my amputee awareness campaign by participating in support groups and posting more instructional videos/blogs.
- To help empower other amputees through eduction and positive lifestyle.
I look forward to a full year of advocacy, outreach, education and FUN!!
Wishing You A Full And Happy Holiday Season. Ty
Friday, November 12, 2010
Being Comfortable With Who You Are
Of all the things in the word one of the hardest has been to always be happy with who I am no matter who else likes me or not. I really get hurt sometimes when someone, for whatever reason does not like me. I have over time come to one conclusion - 'Some people are just not going to like you no matter what you do or how you act. No matter what!'
Recently, before I moved I tried to reach out to a few people from my past to try and apologize for differences we had. Some reacted very well, others told me to get lost and others just ignored me. Even though I did not feel wrong in some of the situations I tried my best to apologize, because I was hurt over losing what I considered important friendships and relationships. I thought I may never see some of these people ever again. I even lost some side friends that became casualties due to the fact that they work with or associate with the original person I had parted with. I have to tell you what hurt the most were those that did not accept my sincere efforts to make amends. After much thought I realized that I made an honest attempt and that is all I could do. For whatever reason the thought of not being liked, especially be some people I admired really stung.
Some of the friendships I lost were due to not being true to myself. Even though it is tempting to try and act different to try and fit in, in the end it just does not pay off. Either your true traits are gong to show sooner or later or you are going to end up a miserable person acting like something/someone you are not.
Think really hard about your daily routine. Do you act different around different people? Do you hold back some of your thoughts when talking to someone who has different beliefs than yourself? Do you act different on your first date with someone than you do after you have known them for a while? If you are honest then I think most of us can say we do.
Now I know being agreeable with others does not mean you are not happy with yourself. What I do know is that putting up a false front can turn you into a fake miserable person.
The saddest thing I can say about these situations is the damage is does to people. I know many that are successful and that appear to be on top of the world and who are miserable. Likewise I know honest and good people that get screwed over all the time...because they are so nice people walk all over them.
It can be very frustrating. Many of us often ask where is the justice in the world? I can tell you from personal experience that influential people can make you out into someone you are not.
Once again the best advice is to just try and be true to who you are. As touched upon in the last blog...I really do believe this world is only part of the journey. I wholeheartedly believe that being true to yourself, working hard and doing the right thing pays off in the end.
Truthfully - Ty
Recently, before I moved I tried to reach out to a few people from my past to try and apologize for differences we had. Some reacted very well, others told me to get lost and others just ignored me. Even though I did not feel wrong in some of the situations I tried my best to apologize, because I was hurt over losing what I considered important friendships and relationships. I thought I may never see some of these people ever again. I even lost some side friends that became casualties due to the fact that they work with or associate with the original person I had parted with. I have to tell you what hurt the most were those that did not accept my sincere efforts to make amends. After much thought I realized that I made an honest attempt and that is all I could do. For whatever reason the thought of not being liked, especially be some people I admired really stung.
Some of the friendships I lost were due to not being true to myself. Even though it is tempting to try and act different to try and fit in, in the end it just does not pay off. Either your true traits are gong to show sooner or later or you are going to end up a miserable person acting like something/someone you are not.
Think really hard about your daily routine. Do you act different around different people? Do you hold back some of your thoughts when talking to someone who has different beliefs than yourself? Do you act different on your first date with someone than you do after you have known them for a while? If you are honest then I think most of us can say we do.
Now I know being agreeable with others does not mean you are not happy with yourself. What I do know is that putting up a false front can turn you into a fake miserable person.
The saddest thing I can say about these situations is the damage is does to people. I know many that are successful and that appear to be on top of the world and who are miserable. Likewise I know honest and good people that get screwed over all the time...because they are so nice people walk all over them.
It can be very frustrating. Many of us often ask where is the justice in the world? I can tell you from personal experience that influential people can make you out into someone you are not.
Once again the best advice is to just try and be true to who you are. As touched upon in the last blog...I really do believe this world is only part of the journey. I wholeheartedly believe that being true to yourself, working hard and doing the right thing pays off in the end.
Truthfully - Ty
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Inner Growth Through Discipline And Sacrifice
I have often talked a lot about working out and keeping yourself healthy. I am sure I have mentioned keeping a positive attitude. For sure I know I have mentioned that being open to new experiences or perspectives can help you fully enjoy life. What I have never directly mentioned is you need to feed your spirit as well.
Living healthy, being outgoing, staying upbeat and positive are sure fire methods to promote spiritual growth. A body that is running well on all cylinders makes it easy to address the prospect of inner expansion. These tenets, in my opinion, are only part of the puzzle though.
What is feeding your spirit? Well, for one I think it depends on the individual. There are a lot of religious teachings and beliefs out there. I think the guidelines to most Christian based religions stress good sound behavior. As far as I know most other religions do as well? (but I am no expert). I do think delving into teachings of some type to try and achieve a better moral clarity is a wise investment of your time. At the very least I think studying some of these subjects can open up your mind. [There are many so called 'progressive' or 'liberal' minded people that seem to have a disdain for any teachings that have do with religion. I find this kind of funny because the whole point of being liberal or open minded is to accept others no matter what they are into, without ridiculing them in the process. I think the fear is that religion may be forced on others? Either way I don't condone cramming any subject down someones throat.] (With all the pop culture, sex and violence we see on TV on a daily basis...could studying something else really be that bad??). I think that fields such as philosophy, art and science sometimes address our existence and purpose as well.
If you ask me the number one way to grow spiritually is through discipline. Discipline is what keeps your desires in check with your morality. We all like to eat good food. We all like to do things that make us feel good. We also know there are some things we should not do too much or at all. Through discipline we can keep those "things" in check.
Without keeping our behaviors in check we can damage ourselves and our fellow human beings. For instance, if you drink too much alcohol you can hurt yourself or someone else very easily. The same is true if you eat too much or give into other desires in an abusive way.
What does controlling your behaviors through discipline have to do with spiritual growth? Without getting on a religious rant I can state it emphatically makes your a better person. Just think of the great things that are done when we make sacrifices to live right? Saving your money and living properly instead of boozing it up and being wreckless can be the difference between owning a home, going to jail or putting your kid through college...Need I say more? I am not saying to not live or have a good time. Moderation through discipline is the key.
We all know sacrifice is hard. Getting up in the morning to work out usually isn't any fun. Staying home and not going out to save money can seem pretty dull. What we all know though is that if we make these sacrifices they will pay off down the road on many different levels. Better health, more money and feeling better are just a few of the dividends these behaviors can lead to.
As many profess, some day when you body is broke down...your spirit will be the part that is left to carry on...Won't it do better if you showed discipline and made sacrifices for it?
A random video a college student did that I saw and liked: Kristy Creates A Star
PS Speaking of spirits and heavenly things I have relocated to Florida...I love it here.
Until Next Post - Ty
Living healthy, being outgoing, staying upbeat and positive are sure fire methods to promote spiritual growth. A body that is running well on all cylinders makes it easy to address the prospect of inner expansion. These tenets, in my opinion, are only part of the puzzle though.
What is feeding your spirit? Well, for one I think it depends on the individual. There are a lot of religious teachings and beliefs out there. I think the guidelines to most Christian based religions stress good sound behavior. As far as I know most other religions do as well? (but I am no expert). I do think delving into teachings of some type to try and achieve a better moral clarity is a wise investment of your time. At the very least I think studying some of these subjects can open up your mind. [There are many so called 'progressive' or 'liberal' minded people that seem to have a disdain for any teachings that have do with religion. I find this kind of funny because the whole point of being liberal or open minded is to accept others no matter what they are into, without ridiculing them in the process. I think the fear is that religion may be forced on others? Either way I don't condone cramming any subject down someones throat.] (With all the pop culture, sex and violence we see on TV on a daily basis...could studying something else really be that bad??). I think that fields such as philosophy, art and science sometimes address our existence and purpose as well.
If you ask me the number one way to grow spiritually is through discipline. Discipline is what keeps your desires in check with your morality. We all like to eat good food. We all like to do things that make us feel good. We also know there are some things we should not do too much or at all. Through discipline we can keep those "things" in check.
Without keeping our behaviors in check we can damage ourselves and our fellow human beings. For instance, if you drink too much alcohol you can hurt yourself or someone else very easily. The same is true if you eat too much or give into other desires in an abusive way.
What does controlling your behaviors through discipline have to do with spiritual growth? Without getting on a religious rant I can state it emphatically makes your a better person. Just think of the great things that are done when we make sacrifices to live right? Saving your money and living properly instead of boozing it up and being wreckless can be the difference between owning a home, going to jail or putting your kid through college...Need I say more? I am not saying to not live or have a good time. Moderation through discipline is the key.
We all know sacrifice is hard. Getting up in the morning to work out usually isn't any fun. Staying home and not going out to save money can seem pretty dull. What we all know though is that if we make these sacrifices they will pay off down the road on many different levels. Better health, more money and feeling better are just a few of the dividends these behaviors can lead to.
As many profess, some day when you body is broke down...your spirit will be the part that is left to carry on...Won't it do better if you showed discipline and made sacrifices for it?
A random video a college student did that I saw and liked: Kristy Creates A Star
PS Speaking of spirits and heavenly things I have relocated to Florida...I love it here.
Until Next Post - Ty
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