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Lower limb prostheses designed for cosmetic and partial functional (primarily flexion) replacement of a missing limb amputated below the knee articulation. These prostheses typically consist of external or partially implantable devices including an assembly of ankle and foot components that are attached at the proximal end with a socket to the residual limb or another prosthetic device (e.g., a tube resembling the leg); the ankle component usually includes a mechanism that provides flexion (i.e., acting as a hinge) and some degree of internal and external rotation movements and locking positions to the foot component. Below-the-knee lower limb prostheses are available in a great variety of configurations and sizes; they are used mainly in patients who have congenital abnormalities or who suffered amputations due to illness (e.g., diabetes) or traumatic accidents.
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