Create Prosthetics has created the 3D printed prosthetic leg covers for British Paralympian Corie Mapp
The major problem with prostheses available in the market today is the lack of comfort, especially with external prosthetic devices. It usually takes up to two years for a new patient to get used to the feel of their prosthetic device. Wearing external prostheses for long hours continuously is often difficult and painful. Many patients also feel embarrassed by the look of the external prostheses.
3D printing has come a long way in improving prosthetics and making them more affordable, but for an amputee, having an artificial limb where there used to be a real one is still a major, emotional transition.
Create Prosthetics, a Lake Placid, NY-based 3D printing specialist, designs and delivers customized prosthetics and prosthetic covers that allow patients to express their personalities with longer-lasting more functional solutions.
Image source: 3ders
It has created a set of 3D printed prosthetic leg covers for Corie Mapp, a British Paralympic bobsledder. The protective devices have been emblazoned with the crest of Arsenal F.C., Mapp’s favorite soccer team.
About Flexi Fit Technology
Flexi Fit prosthetics have many advantages compared to conventional prosthetics. It starts with unique proprietary flexible filament material that stands up to daily wear and tears.
The latest 3D printing technology is used to produce prosthetics to the exact specifications and personal design preferences.
The end result, a form-fitting, flexible, lightweight and durable prosthetic customized to match the personality.
Images credit: Create Prosthetics
Determined to maintain his all-action lifestyle despite the loss of his legs, Barbados-born Mapp took up several sports and has since become one of the world’s best Paralympic bobsledders. The Lance Corporal has even pioneered a new form of the sport, previously reserved for able-bodied bobsledders.
Paralympic bobsled racers usually start in a seated position but, earlier this year, Mapp became the first bilateral amputee to push start and load a bobsled. “We are really excited to partner with Corie, and we can’t think of a better person to represent us and our brand,” said Create Prosthetics founder and CEO Jeff Erenstone. “He is the real deal, a super humble guy, and a hard-working athlete.”
For Mapp himself, the incredible journey following the loss of his legs was as inevitable as it is inspiring for others: “If we sit at home, pile loads of weight on and feel sorry for ourselves, things go downhill,” he said. “Sport helps me stay fit and competitive, and keep me mentally sharp,” as reported by 3ders.
Create Prosthetics isn’t alone in the customized prosthetic cover market; companies such as Art4Leg and UNYQ have also been in the news for their personalized covers. What sets Create Prosthetics apart is their Flexy Fit Prosthetics material, designed to be more flexible, lightweight, and durable than other covers. Covers made from the Flexy Fit material weigh less than a shoe and conform to the wearer’s natural shape.
