Analytical evaluation of an energy-storing foot prosthesis

A second generation foot prosthesis capable of generating propulsion has been developed. This prosthesis has wide application, particularly for sports. The propulsion achieved using the device can be represented by the ratio of energy released to the energy stored in the foot during the standing phase. This research presents an evaluation of a new energy-storing foot prosthesis. The results, obtained by a finite element method and computer simulation, are in good agreement with clinical data. The effects of material elasticity and the forcing function are among those factors investigated.