Josh: Orion3 Knee

Josh Green: A journey of resilience and advancement with Blatchford

Josh Green's story begins with a congenital condition: he was born without a right knee joint. In 1986, he underwent a thru-the-knee amputation, and later, in 2017, his amputation was revised to a point just above the knee. This journey has been marked by numerous challenges and triumphs, showcasing his resilience and determination to lead a whole and active life.

The transformative impact of his first Blatchford device

Josh's experiences with prosthetic devices have been varied, but his transition to Blatchford's advanced prosthetics has been particularly impactful. Starting out with Blatchford's Blade XT, Josh had never before experienced the performance and comfort of a high-quality blade, and although his time with the Blade XT's was short-lived, it left a lasting impression, proving to him the potential of superior prosthetic technology.

"Even though I only had my Blade XT for just a little while, it was great. I'd never been on a decent blade before, and it's well known that amputees who lose a limb as a child can do extraordinarily well on the right equipment."

His current device, the Orion3 knee, has been a game-changer. Unlike his previous MPK knee, the Plié 3, which required frequent repairs (five times within the warranty period), the Orion3 has been reliable and robust. Josh appreciates the peace of mind that comes with a dependable device, allowing him to maintain his active lifestyle without interruptions. The durability and performance of the Orion3 have enabled Josh to take on daily activities confidently and efficiently.

Enhanced daily life

The Orion3 has positively influenced Josh’s daily life at home and work. The knee’s smooth follow-through motion ensures that Josh does not exert extra effort to move it through each step, eliminating the need to manually 'sling' it. This efficiency in movement enhances his mobility and conserves his energy, allowing him to engage more fully in his daily routines.

"I understand how hard I am on things, but I refuse to live a less-than-normal life. If I had to cut the grass on crutches, I would. The one thing I appreciate about my Orion3 knee so far is I haven't had to send it back yet to get fixed," Josh emphasises.

Standout features of the Orion3

One of the standout features for Josh is Orion's standing support mechanism. When stationary, the knee locks in place, providing Josh with stability and reducing the strain on his back. This feature, combined with the knee’s quick release in just 0.8 seconds, offers unparalleled convenience and comfort, significantly improving Josh's quality of life.

"Orion3 standing support when not in movement, it locks. I love that; it takes a lot of pressure off my back just standing. The fact that in 0.8 seconds it releases is amazing."

Pursuing Personal Goals

With the reliability of the Orion3, Josh is now setting ambitious personal goals. He has registered for the Cleveland Marathon as a walker, aiming to conquer the 26-mile challenge. This goal exemplifies his drive and determination to push boundaries and achieve remarkable feats, all supported by his Blatchford device.

A Trusted Partnership

Josh's relationship with his clinician has been a cornerstone of his prosthetic journey. Having known the Leimkuehler family for over a decade, Josh speaks highly of their expertise and dedication. His trust and familiarity with his clinicians have undoubtedly played a crucial role in his successful adaptation to new prosthetic technologies.

"I've known the Leimkuehlers for over a decade. Their family is very well known in the prosthetic industry," Josh notes.

Conclusion

Josh Green’s story is a testament to the advancements in prosthetic technology and its profound impact on an individual’s life. His journey with Blatchford, particularly with the Orion3 knee, illustrates how reliable, innovative devices can empower amputees to live active, fulfilling lives. Josh’s determination and positive outlook, combined with the support of his Blatchford device, are inspiring examples of resilience and progress.