We Can Make Him Faster, Stronger, Better

So Josh sent me this article the other day (I've noticed all my cool news stuff seems to come from him) and I thought I'd share. Go ahead and click, I'll be here when you get back. http://gizmodo.com/i-wore-a-bionic-leg-and-i-never-wanted-to-take-it-off-726536822

Isn't that cool? It's a bionic leg. First thing I said when I saw it is that I want one. Unfortunately it's not really designed for my level of function. I don't think I can provide even 20% of the power to go up stairs and curbs and stuff. And I'm not sure I have the control in my feet and ankles to really use it properly. But I was intrigued by the way it reads your intentions to give you support (so your knee doesn't give out unexpectedly) and flexibility (so you can continue to walk and live even while your strength is impaired).

Back in rehab I had these knee-foot-orthotics called a UTX that kept my knee braced while my weight was on it and bent at the knee when I was ready to swing my leg forward. The idea was amazing, especially at the time, and after a lot of practice, the execution was pretty good. Those also "read" your intention from ankle movement. The Bionic Leg seems like the next step up, providing not only bracing but leveled assistance. I can't wait to see these used in therapy.