Flex-Foot, one of the United States' foremost innovators of advanced, high tech lower-limb prostheses, offers Re-Flex VSP, the first prosthesis available to successfully integrate a shock-absorption system, note its designers.

Utilizing a carbon fiber compression spring and telescoping tubes - a tube within a tube - that move vertically up to one inch, the Re-Flex VSP cushions the impact to amputees' residual limbs, allowing patients to land on their prosthesis without experiencing pain or discomfort.

Now in its fifth year, Re-Flex VSP has recently been equipped with an anterior-mount shock module, which optimizes alignment position to the socket; an extended posterior radius, which offers greater flexibility in extension; Biaxial Weave composite, which maintains its flexibility while extending the component's durability; and a truly active heel, which facilitates natural tibial progression and proportional response.

"As an amputee, I have never in my life experienced a prosthesis that would reduce the shock to my body when I step off a curb. However, the Re-Flex VSP prosthesis virtually eliminates all of the shock to my body," said Brian Frasure, an amputee athlete.

According to Flex-Foot inventor Van Phillips, previous attempts have been made to perfect a shock-absorption system, but most were too bulky for everyday use.

The Re-Flex VSP, however, is made with components of carbon fiber, an extremely lightweight and durable material often used in the aerospace industry.

"The side spring we incorporate is also made of carbon fiber and weighs less than two ounces," Phillips said. "By comparison, a steel spring would weigh about 12 ounces."

The coupling of the smoothest shock absorption system with the highest energy storage and return foot allows amputees the ability to walk or run for a longer period of time.

"The Re-Flex VSP is an excellent product for all types of patients," said Charles Dempsey, an amputee. "You don't have to be a marathon runner to enjoy the incredible comfort and benefits of this prosthesis."

Since its inception in 1984 by inventor, amputee, and prosthetic researcher Van Phillips, Flex-Foot has become one of the world's most widely used prosthetic feet for competitive athletes as well as for amputees of all ages and activity levels.