At Orthotics.co.uk, we offer access to the Thuasne Agilik Smart Robotic KAFO through our specialist clinics in Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
What is the Agilik Smart Robotic KAFO?
The Agilik Bionic Power Robotic KAFO is a cutting-edge, powered orthotic device designed to assist individuals with lower limb weakness or neurological conditions that affect mobility. KAFO stands for Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis, and the Agilik takes this concept to a new level by incorporating smart robotic technology that dynamically supports movement while promoting improved gait patterns.
Unlike traditional KAFOs, the Agilik features intelligent onboard microprocessors that monitor the user's muscle activity and walking pattern in real time. It can respond with motor-assisted support to compensate for weak or fatigued muscles. This technology is especially beneficial for individuals with knee flexion or extension weakness and those presenting with crouch gait.
The Agilik Bionic Power Robotic KAFO can be fitted to one or both legs and is suitable for a range of neurological and neuromuscular conditions, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, stroke, and incomplete spinal cord injury.The aim is not just to stabilise the legs, but to provide specific assistance to enable natural movement, increased independence, and enhanced confidence.
The Agilik Bionic Powered KAFO is specifically designed for use on the lower limbs and is intended for individuals who are already ambulatory. It does not generate joint movement on its own but instead provides dynamic support to assist existing muscle activity.
Who is Suitable for an Agilik Robotic KAFO?
The Agilik Robotic KAFO is designed for both children and adults who retain some voluntary control of their lower limb muscles but experience weakness in knee flexion and/or extension. Incorporating an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) section, it also provides targeted support for managing conditions such as foot drop.
This advanced orthosis has shown excellent results in individuals presenting with crouch gait, helping to improve posture, stride, and overall walking efficiency. It is particularly well-suited for those who are already able to walk with assistance but struggle with poor gait mechanics, fatigue, or knee instability.
A full clinical assessment is essential to determine if the Agilik is appropriate, as each individual's mobility needs and physical presentation are unique.
What Are the Benefits of the Agilik Robotic KAFO?
The Agilik Robotic KAFO offers a wide range of benefits for children and young people with neuromuscular conditions affecting mobility. Unlike traditional orthoses, the Agilik uses smart resistance and powered support to encourage active movement and functional gains. Key benefits include:
- Improved Knee Extension and Flexion: By dynamically supporting the knee joint with the mechanical power of the device, the Agilik helps users achieve better control during both the stance and swing phases of gait, promoting a more natural and effective walking pattern.
- Increased Step Length: With improved joint mechanics and muscle activation, users often develop a longer, more consistent step, contributing to more efficient movement.
- Enhanced Walking Endurance: Reducing the physical strain associated with inefficient gait allows users to walk for longer distances with less fatigue, improving participation in daily activities.
- Improved Walking Speed: By supporting a more controlled and energy-efficient stride, many users experience a noticeable increase in walking speed.
- Active Muscle Engagement: The Agilik encourages users to use their own muscles, supporting strength development and reducing reliance on passive devices.
- Personalised Settings: The system can be tailored to meet each individual’s specific needs and goals, and it can evolve with the user as they grow or improve.
The overall goal of the Agilik is not just to support movement, but to train and improve it, helping users build confidence, independence, and functional ability over time. Frequent review appointments will allow us to tailor the device to your requirements.
How Does the Agilik Robotic KAFO Work?
The Agilik KAFO combines advanced micro processing sensors, mechanical powered assistance, and adjustable joint resistance to work with the user’s natural movements. It uses real-time biofeedback to monitor how the muscles are being used, providing powered assistance only when needed. This encourages the user to actively engage muscles and develop strength and control.
Key features include:
- Smart knee joint with resistance control to guide safer, more functional knee movement
- Adjustable settings that adapt as the user progresses over time
- Data tracking to measure improvements and refine therapy goal
- Battery pack - the user wears a lightweight backpack containing the battery pack, which supplies the power required to operate the motor-assisted support system.
What is the Process to Receiving an Agilik Robotic KAFO?
At orthotics.co.uk, we’ve created a structured, patient-centred process for those interested in the Agilik Robotic KAFO
- Initial Enquiry – Contact us to discuss your child’s needs and to determine if an assessment is appropriate.
- Comprehensive Assessment – We conduct a thorough clinical assessment, including gait analysis, strength and range of motion testing, and discussion of functional goals.
- Trial Phase – If suitable, a trial fitting and demonstration may be arranged, allowing both clinician and patient to observe the benefits in real-time.
- Custom Manufacture – If the decision is made to proceed, the Agilik device will be custom-made to fit the user precisely, taking into account anatomical and functional requirements. Plaster casts or scans will be taken of the lower limbs to provide us with the shape of the leg in order to provide a custom made device.
- Fitting and Training – An initial plastic check KAFO will be fabricated to assess overall fit and alignment. Once an optimal fit is achieved, the final device can be manufactured in carbon fibre. When the finished orthosis arrives, a comprehensive fitting will be carried out, followed by training sessions with our specialist orthotists to ensure correct use and maximum benefit.
- Follow-up and Support – Ongoing reviews and adjustments ensure the device continues to meet the patient’s goals and needs as they grow and progress. The strength of the powered assistance can be altered as required.
Is There a Trial Available for the Agilik Robotic KAFO Before Going Ahead?
Yes, we offer a trial session with an adjustable demonstration Agilik KAFO. This is an invaluable step in the process, allowing the clinician, patient, and family to see how the technology works in practice. The trial helps us determine whether the device offers the benefits we would expect and whether it fits with your expectations.
We will guide you through every stage, ensuring that you feel confident in making an informed decision before committing to a full custom device. Please note that we do not hold a trial device in stock. An initial suitability assessment is required before we can arrange for a trial unit to be ordered.
Here is an example of the trail device:
How Do I Get Booked In for My Assessment for an Agilik Robotic KAFO?
- Contact Us: Reach out to our team via phone or email. You can call us directly at 03300883949 or send an email to office@orthotics.co.uk to inquire about scheduling a consultation.
- Initial Assessment: During the consultation, one of our experienced clinicians will conduct a thorough assessment of your needs. We will discuss your medical history, current condition, and goals to determine if the Mollii Suit is the right solution for you.
- Trial Fitting: If appropriate, we will offer a trial fitting so you can experience the Mollii Suit and see how it may benefit you. Our clinicians will adjust the settings and ensure that the suit is comfortable and effective.
- Follow-Up Support: After the trial, we will review your progress and discuss any further steps needed to integrate the Mollii Suit into your rehabilitation plan. We will provide ongoing support to ensure optimal results.
- Book Your Appointment: To begin the process, contact us today to arrange your appointment. We can schedule consultations across our clinic locations in Manchester, Leeds, or arrange a virtual consultation if preferred.
To get in touch or arrange an appointment, you can call us at 0330 088 3949 or email office@orthotics.co.uk.