Paris 2024: Prosthetics and orthotics students get front row seats at Paralympics

CDT sponsors Ottobock have invited the students, along with three members of Salford staff, to join their team trackside at the Stade de France on Monday 2 September, before visiting the Ottobock workshop in the athletes' village the following day. They will then have a chance to watch a game of wheelchair basketball on the Wednesday, before returning home.

Students have shared their excitement at having the opportunity to attend the “a once in a lifetime event”.

Student Nico said, "Being able to engage with top level disability sport, and specifically the prosthetics aspect, is a great opportunity and will help us to consider potential applications of our research.”

Lauren, another doctoral student, agreed: “I am looking forward to discovering how collaborations between engineers, designers, and athletes shape the development of prosthetic limbs which are not only functional but also optimised for high-performance sports. This trip will give us an opportunity to see the processes behind creating the prosthetics that enable athletes to compete at their best, and I look forward to applying these insights to my own research.”

Another student, Mike, explained: “Visiting the prosthetics workshop in the athletes' village will be extremely useful in learning how individuals with amputations manage their prosthetics when competing at such a high level. This knowledge will help us understand what research is needed to improve prosthetic design and enable higher activity levels for prosthesis users.”

CDT Director Professor Malcolm Granat said, "Attending the Paralympics in Paris offers our doctoral students a unique, real-life perspective on how advances in prosthetics and orthotics can profoundly enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. This experience not only enriches their current research but also inspires their future careers, showing them the tangible impact, their work can have.

"Through our valuable partnership with Ottobock, students gain direct insight into the cutting-edge technologies and real-world applications that drive the field forward. By connecting with athletes and professionals who rely on these innovations, our students are motivated to push the boundaries of what’s possible and contribute to a future where prosthetics and orthotics significantly improve the quality of life for those who need them.”

Ottobock is a German company specialising in prosthetics, orthotics, and mobility solutions, recognised as a global leader in medical technology. Since its founding, Ottobock has been at the forefront of innovation in this field. The company is a major partner of the CDT, providing support and industry expertise. Ottobock has been a partner of the Paralympic Games since 1988, offering free technical services to all athletes. Their team is responsible for ensuring that prosthetic and orthotic devices are in peak condition during competitions.