Dr. Andrysek's design has many advantages over other available options: made of injection-molded plastic, it can withstand rough conditions like water and sand that disable other prosthetic knee joints, and its comparatively low price point of about $100 makes it far more accessible to those in the developing world.Comparable knees can cost thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars.

Dr. Andrysek and his team have received two rounds of Grand Challenges Canada funding to develop and field test the knee around the world.His knee is being tested internationally in Ethiopia, Colombia, and Nicaragua, among other locations.The next step, through partnerships with the International Red Cross and other organizations, is to manufacture and distribute the life-changing prosthetic knee widely.

"Our technology can change lives," says Dr. Andrysek.“Imagine if you lived in poverty and had an above-the-knee amputation, whether from a landmine, disease, or other causes, and your only choice was to walk with crutches for the rest of your life.For many in the developing world, that is their reality.We believe that people with amputations can do anything they want, given the right rehabilitation and prosthesis.I’m so excited to make the LC Knee available to them so they can take care of their families and enjoy their lives.”

The LC Knee can help Canadians here at home, too.The “rugged” nature of the knee joint makes it a great alternative for active people who want to ski, swim, and hike in places their previous prosthetics couldn’t take them.

Learn more about the LC Knee, visit Dr. Andrysek’s PROPEL Lab.