Leg Amputees Get Extra Elasticity From Flexible Plastic
Athletes with amputated legs often use a special type of prostheses made of a carbon fibre-reinforced polymer, which looks like a bent ski. When the runner lands on the prosthesis, the “bend” gives in, absorbing some of the energy, which is used again during take-off. The principle is similar to the way in which foot and lower leg muscles and tendons function.