Mobility made possible.
Meet Lynn:
Regaining Independence with Tectus®
Lynn Goettel’s Journey with the Tectus® KAFO
Lynn Goettel's life changed drastically after a ruptured patella tendon led to multiple surgeries, infections, and the loss of muscle and nerve function in her left leg. Years of instability, frequent falls, and a limited ability to move followed. But with the help of Blatchford's Tectus®, Lynn is now living independently and confidently once again.
A Challenging Road to Recovery
Lynn’s recovery after her knee replacement was anything but straightforward. “I had no stability in my leg and multiple falls were occurring on a weekly basis,” she recalls. These falls caused wrist fractures, making it almost impossible for Lynn to perform daily tasks without relying on dual quad canes, a wheelchair, or a scooter. She was unable to bend or swing her lower leg due to significant damage to her muscles and tendons.
Gaining Independence with the Tectus®
When Lynn received the Tectus®, she wasn’t sure how much it could help her. “I left with the hope of being able to walk again without the use of canes,” she says. To her surprise, the Tectus exceeded her expectations.
With the Tectus®, Lynn regained the ability to perform everyday tasks she once thought impossible. “I now stand to cook and do my household chores, including cleaning, vacuuming, and laundry,” she shares. She can now enjoy gardening and even hitch and tow her travel trailer for camping. “I no longer need my canes or walker when wearing my Tectus®. I can walk with a steady, near-normal gait, which frees up my arms to carry groceries and other items.”
The Tectus® allowed Lynn to walk more fluidly, providing stability and reducing the rigid, straight-leg gait she had before. The brace assists with a complete step-through, allowing her to swing her leg forward and follow through with each step.
How the Tectus Helps: The Technology Behind the Support
The Tectus® features advanced microprocessor-controlled technology that adapts to the user’s walking pattern, giving Lynn the stability and freedom she needs. Its hydraulic system ensures smooth and controlled knee movement while providing shock absorption, a key factor in reducing the risk of falls and injury.
For Lynn, the Tectus® allows her to lock and unlock her knee at key moments, providing the necessary support to stand and move safely. “The brace’s hydraulic control provides a smoother walking experience and reduces the stress on my knee,” she explains. This allows her to walk with greater confidence, even in unpredictable situations.
Additionally, the Tectus® supports a complete step-through motion, which is essential for Lynn to walk with a more natural gait. “I can now walk without the straight-leg, hip-swing gait I used to have,” she says. This improvement has been crucial in restoring her mobility and independence.
A Life Transformed
Since receiving the Tectus®, Lynn’s daily life has been transformed. “Before, I was falling multiple times a week, which made almost all tasks out of my reach. My family was considering moving me to a facility for assistance,” she reflects. However, since receiving the Tectus®, Lynn has not fallen once. She is now fully independent, able to live independently and actively participate in community events.
The Tectus® has improved Lynn’s stability and boosted her stamina. “I believe my overall strength in my leg has improved, and I feel more confident in my ability to move naturally, thanks to the brace,” she says. The Tectus® has helped Lynn rebuild strength and muscle tone, even after nerve damage, by allowing her leg to move more naturally.
“The brace has increased my stability, stamina, and strength, allowing me to live without fear of falling. I'm now able to do things I couldn't imagine before.”
Personal Goals and a New Outlook
Lynn continues to work on her walking distance and stamina. "I want to continue to explore and travel more," she says. After nearly two years of being non-weight bearing, Lynn’s muscles had atrophied, but recent check-ups have shown increased muscle tone. "I hope to meet the goals I’ve set for myself and continue to set new ones."
Lynn is excited to keep moving forward, knowing that with the support of her Tectus®, she has the confidence to tackle whatever lies ahead.
A Positive Experience with Her Clinician
Lynn’s experience with her clinician, John Sailors, at West Coast Brace and Limb was pivotal. “I had such a positive experience with John. He had just returned from an in-service on the Tectus and thought it would be a game-changer for me—and he was right!” she recalls. From the very first appointment, Lynn was filled with hope, and by the time her final fitting came around, she was surprised by how well she was doing.
A Key Feature That Makes a Difference
Lynn's favourite feature of the Tectus is its key fob. “It gives me the ability to change modes without having to look down, making it easier for me to sit, get into a vehicle, or lock my position as needed,” she explains. This thoughtful design detail adds to the ease of use and enhances Lynn’s overall experience with the device.
A New Lease on Life
With the Tectus, Lynn has regained her independence and is living life to the fullest. "It’s been a remarkable journey," she says. "The brace has increased my stability, stamina, and strength, allowing me to live without fearing falling. I'm now able to do things I couldn’t imagine before."
Lynn’s story is a powerful reminder that with the proper support, mobility can be regained, and independence restored.
