Össur's newly redesigned Rheo Knee ® is a smart prosthetic knee system that was developed after Otto Bock's C-Leg ® . Made in Iceland, the knee follows the same computerised principles as the C-Leg ® but uses a different mechanical technology. The Rheo Knee ® utilises a microprocessor to monitor the wearer’s walking style and the type of ground over which he or she is walking. It continually learns and remembers any changes. The knee reacts so well that it completely frees the wearer’s ability to concentrate on their activity, rather than having to worry about how their replacement knee is working.

The Rheo Knee’s highly advanced artificial intelligence continually monitors the wearer’s walking or running style, instantly recognizing any small and subtle variations. Its response is immediate to any changes in speed, terrain or load. As a result the wearer is confident of being able to walk naturally without fear of falling and at any speed.

The knee’s actuator technology controls its movements by adapting its own rigidity. Fluid within the actuator contains small metallic particles. When needed, the microprocessor sends a magnetic field through the fluid, which becomes thicker as a result of the particles, stiffening the joint. As a result of this technology the knee’s movements and responses are both smooth and rapid through every phase of the ambulatory cycle. The effort of walking is reduced to a minimum and the gait is smoother and more natural.

The Rheo Knee ® provides enhanced security and contains multiple safeguards against unintentional stance release, which means that it is far less likely to buckle at critical moments.
Because of its continual monitoring, any small changes in gait are recognized automatically, and stance support is instantaneously activated in order to protect the user from a possible slip and fall.

The knee’s highly developed technology is extremely easy to use. Its plug and play concept allows the prosthetist to swiftly recognize the best set-up parameters for the wearer. It is just as easy for the wearer, for after only a few steps the knee is already adapted to the best possible stance support, and has settled into a smooth swinging motion so that the wearer hardly has to give it a second thought. This knee is so smart that it adapts automatically to individual walking styles and unusual surroundings, constantly learning and improving its response as time goes by.

The Rheo Knee ® is powered by a small battery that lasts up to 48 hours and can be recharged overnight, taking two to four hours for a full charge either at home or in a vehicle. The battery can be switched off whenever the knee is not in use.