Using the RCR method over the last few years has been a rewarding road of discovery. I have a better understanding of gait and normal anatomy. I have learned that the high tension cast in full extension gives me the best “snapshot” of the limb for comfort at midstance. I have also discovered that the problems I was having (distal tibia break down and alignment issues) have been cured with the RCR method. Patients love extra extension as well as flexion. I was surprised that even the relatively happy patients I already had were even happier when I switched them over to the RCR because of the increased freedom they felt. Lastly, I have been overwhelmed with the feedback from physical therapists saying that they are so impressed with the thoughtfulness of the design, and tell me they really never understood why there was a bar in the socket to begin with.
I believe that the RCR socket design and theory benefit ALL below-the-knee amputees. It is strange to think about not having a bar in a socket, but the time has come to say so long to the tradition and keep on developing socket designs that are relevant to the interface technology advances we now know. The RCR design and process is a systematic process which gives me confidence that I can make patients happy and comfortable in their prosthesis.