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IP Ratings for Leg Prostheses

 

Life can get a little wet sometimes. Helping your patient understand how protected their prosthesis is from exposure to the elements is key to understanding what types of activities they can safely enjoy without worrying about ruining the device. What is weatherproof? What is waterproof? For microprocessor knees, such as the C-Leg and X3, it all comes down to what is called the IP Rating.
 
An IP or “Ingress Protection” rating refers to the degree of sealing effectiveness electrical enclosures have against the intrusion of foreign bodies (solids, dust, dirt etc.) and moisture. IP ratings consist of two digits and play an important role in determining what type of activities you can perform with your microprocessor knee.
 
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X3 - IP 68

X3 carries the highest level of protection from liquids and solids offered in a microprocessor knee.
 
  • Protects the X3 from damage while being submerged (up to 3 meters for 1 hour).
  • The knee joint and AXON tube adapter are both waterproof and corrosion resistant in salt, fresh, and chlorinated water.
  • From the weekend to a demanding work week, the X3's IP 68 rating provides more protection for water-related activities than any other prosthetic leg on the market.
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C-Leg - IP 67

The C-Leg 4 is water-resistant. Its IP 67 rating protects the C-Leg 4 from dust, sand, dirt, and temporary submersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
 
  • Unlike the X3, the C-leg 4 does not have additional corrosion resistance. Water exposure or submersion should be limited to fresh water only.
  • C-Leg 4 is considered water-resistant so walking in the rain or playing with your kids at the lake are things users can enjoy without worry!
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Genium - IP 67

The Genium is water-resistant. Its IP 67 rating protects Genium from dust, sand, dirt, and temporary submersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
 
  • Unlike the X3, the Genium does not have additional corrosion resistance. Water exposure or submersion should be limited to fresh water only.
  • Genium is considered water-resistant. Exposure or submersion to fresh water activities can be performed safely.
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It’s important to remember that the IP rating only refers to protection for the product’s electronics. Microprocessor knees have IP ratings, but mechanical knees do not. A fully waterproof knee or foot must have the ability to resist corrosion when immersed in fresh water, chlorinated water, or salt water. That’s the reason Ottobock uses the terms water resistant and waterproof. Ottobock water resistant knees protect the electronics against limited submersion but require maintenance for the mechanical parts. Ottobock waterproof knees protect the electronics and the mechanical working parts.

Maintenance

Each individual user is responsible for maintaining their prosthesis. Even waterproof knees benefit from regular care. When prosthetic components are exposed to corrosive elements such as chlorinated water or salt water, the components should be thoroughly rinsed with fresh water, drained of excess moisture, and then dried with a lint-free towel.

It is often helpful to pair a waterproof knee with a foot that can drain water through the pyramid or the foot shell. This makes maintenance easier for the user.

For more details, please refer to the products' respective Instructions for Use.