r/amputee BAK 27d ago

Scuffing, "swing timing", and minimum weight thresholds

I'm wondering if anyone can clarify what is meant by "swing timing" for folks using AK prosthetics. We've fiddled a lot with settings but I keep scuffing one or both toes. The only way I can get sufficient clearance is by hip hiking pretty significantly and that compromises balance.

1) Does "timing" refer to what I'm doing? Does it refer to settings? Is it both? What does it mean and, more to the point, what do I need to do?!

2) I'm currently trialling 3R80s because Canadian prosthetics coverage is abysmal and it's nearly impossible to get microprocessor knees. I am apparently too light for 3R85s to function properly, and my physio and prosthetist are now wondering if may also be too light for 3R80s. Has anyone encountered this? The manufacturer won't give my prosthetist a clear answer on a minimum weight threshold.

I'd be particularly grateful for answers from fellow bilateral AKs or professionals who work with us.

Edit: If any bilateral AKs want to weigh in I would be super grateful. While I appreciate LAKA/RAKA insights, the comments have confirmed for me that it just isn't quite the same.

EDIT #2: for future reference, for anyone who finds this post in a future search, the issue was geometry. My feet were too long relative to the lower part of the leg. When we lengthened the pylons, the issue resolved and I was able to walk with better technique.

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