Researchers develop bionic foot that restores a natural walking pattern

In an initial treadmill study, a test participant walked at different speeds using the bionic prototype. The system rhythmically activated the muscles at the front and back of the lower leg, enabling a more natural walking pattern. According to Ruud Leijendekkers, associate professor and physical therapist at Radboudumc, ‘this approach could ultimately reduce fatigue by lowering the cognitive effort traditionally required when using a prosthesis.’

Currently, the model still needs to be connected to an external computer. The next development step involves creating a fully stand‑alone, mobile system — including integrated sensors, a compact computer and a long‑lasting battery — so testing can move from the lab to real‑life environments.

Only when the prosthesis can operate independently will the team be able to evaluate its performance in daily life, such as at home, on the street or in natural terrain. This is an essential step toward certification under the Medical Device Regulation and toward proving its added value over existing prostheses.

The development is part of the PERSONIFY project funded by the Össur and Ottobock Research Trust Fund.  Aalborg University and rehabilitation centre 'Het Roessingh' are also involved in the PERSONIFY project, which is a follow-up to the European Simbionics project.

This research is part of HealthTech Nexus, the strategic collaboration between Radboudumc and the University of Twente (TechMed Centre). Together, they focus on addressing unmet healthcare needs: urgent challenges for which no viable solutions currently exist. The researchers leading the ‘Autonomous leg’ project are Massimo Sartori, Professor of Neuromuscular Robotics & Engineering, University of Twente, and Ruud Leijendekkers, associate professor and physical therapist at Radboudumc.

For the full background story and a deeper look into the technology, see the complete article “The bionic foot: technology that helps restore a natural step." (Dutch)