"Some of the simplest tasks were difficult until I got a push button rotator," says Tal, a 27- year-old right above-knee amputee from New York City. A push button rotator (also known as a turntable) is a small component that can be installed between the top of a prosthetic knee and the socket. When the button is pushed, it allows the lower leg to swing to either side or completely around until the sole of the prosthetic foot faces the ceiling. Then, when the prosthesis is brought back to its normal position the rotator locks the leg for walking.

With a rotator, Tal can now get in and out of a car more easily. By pushing the button through his cosmetic foam cover, he is able to swing his prosthetic leg out of the way, as he sits down in the driver’s seat. Since he uses a left foot gas pedal, the rotator also allows him to keep his prosthetic foot away from the car’s regular gas pedal. It can also make long car or plane trips more comfortable by allowing for changes in position. "I use it everyday," says Tal, "for getting dressed and changing shoes." Without this device, he would have to take off his suction prosthesis and reapply it. Other amputees use the rotator for sitting on the ground or crossing one leg over the other when sitting on a chair.

A rotator can be built into a new prosthesis or installed on some existing ones. Discuss your needs with your doctor and prosthetist before getting your next prosthesis and, if there is enough space, it can be included in the design. Most insurance companies will pay for it as long as your doctor prescribes it. There are three different models available and they all function in the same way.

One problem may be length. If you have a long residual limb, then the addition of a rotator may cause the prosthetic knee to extend beyond the sound side knee when sitting down. If this happens, then you will need to decide if the increase in function from the rotator is worth the change in cosmetic appearance. A rotator adds a small amount of weight, which is usually not noticeable. Pushing the button requires adequate hand strength. Always make sure the prosthesis is locked back into walking position before standing up.

About the Author:

John Rheinstein is an ABC-certified prosthetist. He is the lower-extremity prosthetic specialist for Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics in New York City, where he is engaged in clinical practice, research, and teaching. John can be reached by e-mail, jrheinstein@nyc.rr.com

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