Karsten, a dedicated professional archery athlete, embarked on an incredible new chapter in his lifelong pursuit of excellence. Diagnosed with Spina Bifida at birth, Karsten has faced physical challenges head-on with courage, determination, and an unwavering passion for his sport.
Orthotic intervention has been a constant in Karsten’s life since childhood. Over the years, he worked with various orthotists, each shaping his path in unique ways. It wasn’t until he met Jaco, following Jaco’s completion of the Fior & Gentz fabrication course, that Karsten truly felt like he had found the perfect partnership to tackle his next big goal. Together, they accepted the complex challenge of developing orthoses that would optimise Karsten’s mobility and empower him as an athlete.
Karsten’s legs required bilateral intervention, and the F&G configurator confirmed the need for a KAFO (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis) for his right leg and an AFO (Ankle-Foot Orthosis) for his left leg. Jaco crafted the KAFO with precision, featuring a posterior thigh shell, a Neuro Flex Max knee joint with a step-lock function, an anterior shin shell with a Neuro Swing ankle joint, and additional support from a free-motion Neuro Classic ankle joint on the opposite side. For the AFO, an anterior shell with a unilateral Neuro Swing ankle joint proved to be the perfect solution. Both orthoses were carefully manufactured with carbon fiber for their strength, durability, and sleek finish.
From the moment Karsten tried on his new orthoses, something extraordinary happened. After a quick lesson from Jaco on the Neuro Flex Max step-locking function, Karsten was off and running, almost instinctively understanding how to operate the dynamic energy-return features of the Neuro Swing ankle joints. Having never experienced dynamic ankle joints before, Karsten’s excitement was palpable. He wasted no time testing their capabilities and immediately felt the difference they made.
Today, Karsten is thrilled to incorporate his new orthoses into his professional archery routines. He uses them during practice sessions and at professional events, giving him the confidence and freedom to excel in his sport.
Karsten, thank you for trusting us with your incredible journey. Your determination, positivity, and fearless drive to succeed inspire all of us. We can’t wait to see where your talent and hard work take you next.
Keep shooting for the stars – you’re an inspiration to so many.