Under-Knee Leg Support for Wheelchair

Under-Knee Leg Support for Wheelchair - open-source assistive technology prototype by the Ichilov hospital community

About this project

This project is for people with CRPS or severe leg pain who can’t tolerate touch below the knee, helping them move safely in a wheelchair. It uses the wheelchair’s footrest mount with adjustable rods and a cushioned pad to support the leg without contact below the knee. This setup lets the user move freely and pain-free while staying safe.

The challenge

The user needs to move independently in his wheelchair without his lower leg touching anything. This custom support holds the leg from below the knee, preventing contact and enabling safe, pain-free movement.

Who it helps

This solution was designed for a person with CRPS who cannot tolerate touch below the knee. It can also help others with severe leg pain, hypersensitivity, post-surgical recovery, or injuries requiring non-contact leg support while using a wheelchair.

How it works

By repurposing the footrest mount with adjustable rods and a cushioned knee pad, the system supports the leg without contact below the knee—allowing the user to move freely in the wheelchair without pain or risk of touching surfaces.

The concept uses the wheelchair's original footrest mount, replacing its connector with a modular, adjustable rod system. A cushioned pad is attached to support the leg from below the knee, enabling contact-free mobility.

Tools needed

Heavy duty gloves

Protective glasses

Protective headphones

Measurement tool

Digital caliber

RingOpen key set

Pliers

Electric Srewdriver

Circular saw

Project details

The build files for Under-Knee Leg Support for Wheelchair are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

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