8.2.6 Walking down stairs
This function must be practised and executed consciously. Only by properly
stepping down with the sole can the system switch correctly and permit con
trolled rollover. The motion must be carried out in a continuous pattern in
order to allow the motion to proceed in a fluid manner.
A stair function can be activated by using the adjustment software. See the fol
lowing section for further information regarding the stair function.
1) Hold on to the handrail with one hand.
2) Position the leg with the prosthetic foot on the step so that as much of the
3) Place the contralateral side onto the next step.
4) Place the leg with the prosthetic foot on one step beyond the next step.
5) At the end of the stairs, take a bigger step when transitioning to level
8.2.6.1 Stair function
The stair function increases the rollover angle when walking down stairs. This function should be
switched on when walking down stairs step-over-step. If walking down stairs step-over-step is not
required, this function can be switched off. Further information on switching on/off see Page 71.
8.2.7 Walking down a ramp
The foot is already adjusted to the inclination of the ramp with the first step.
This makes it possible for the heel to strike as you lower the tip of the foot so
the entire sole of the foot is in contact with the surface during the rollover.
Lowering the tip of the foot is restricted for walking with a prosthetic knee
joint.
After the prosthetic foot is put down on the ramp, you should not use the knee
to work against it, but should allow movement in the knee joint during heel
strike (yielding). The prosthesis will then recognise the movement as walking.
8.2.8 Walking backwards
The foot enables plantar flexion from the stance phase when walking back
wards. When the toe is subsequently put down, the ankle joint drops to the
neutral position in the dorsiflexion direction.
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sole of the foot as possible is on the step.
INFORMATION: Rolling the foot over the edge of the stair is not
necessary.
While doing so, check whether the knee joint and prosthetic foot will allow
this motion.
ground, so that the prosthetic foot switches over correctly from walking
down the stairs to normal walking phase.