Tatsat Chronicle Magazine

Japan-Based World’s First 3D Printed Prosthetic Legs Maker Launches Operations In India

The Japanese government funded start-up promises to change the way prosthetic legs and socets are customised for comfort and usability
July 13, 2022
instalimb
Photo Credit: Instalimb

Japan-based world’s first 3D-printed prosthetic legs maker, Instalimb, has raised ¥445 million (₹26 crore) in Series A funding in Japan (including investment, loans, and grants) to foray into the Indian market and launched its technologically advanced prosthetic wear solutions in Gurgaon earlier this month.

Instalimb promises to revolutionize prosthetic socket fit and production process that is widely scalable, does not require much space and does not require manpower with specialized skill. This game changing start-up aims to deliver the highest-quality prosthesis leg with socket (tech) and alignment (PO quality) to 48 million people, who currently do not have access to a device in the world.

Selected as a “J-start-up” by the Japanese government as one of the best technology start-ups in Japan, Instalimb products use 3D printing and AI technology that offers the much-needed comfort and desired fit for the end users.

According to multiple research studies around 70% of amputees develop skin related issues associated with prosthetic wear. It also revealed that an ill-fitted prosthetic can restrict rehabilitation and pose balance issues for amputees.

Taking these findings into consideration, it was observed that it is important for a prosthetic leg to have the right design along with a good socket fit. Instalimb products are strategically developed with advanced technology, superior quality and affordability that will help users to not only walk comfortably but also climb the steps with ease.

In fact, Instalimb’s confidence in the socket quality enable them to be the only clinic that provides test socket and test fitting for free. The company knows that any amputees can see the difference in quality.

Yutaka Tokushims, CEO, Instalimb, said: “Instalimb is an innovative approach towards the prosthetics industry. Issues related to socket fit were identified as the biggest factor affecting rehabilitation by around 50% of amputees and 66% of clinicians. Instalimb has taken efforts to meet the expectations of the end users. With our launch in India, we are expecting to reach out to a larger set of individuals who need this kind of an advanced assistance and help them to get back their active lifestyle.”

Funded by the Japanese government, Instalimb has connected with eminent hospitals like AIIMS as well as one of the largest organisations, Jaipur Foot for collaborative projects. Instalimb has catered to over 500 amputees in the Philippines since 2019. In India, Instalimb will head its operations from a clinic in Gurgaon. Amputees can visit the company’s website to register themselves to avail of its services.