Icarus is helping people with knee arthritis live healthier and more active lives through a new class of knee brace that mechanically unloads and assists the knee. Nearly 1 in 10 Americans have knee arthritis, but there are no good solutions to help manage pain and slow the progression of arthritis from the time painful symptoms start until the patient may be eligible for a joint replacement.
Icarus technology works by generating a strong assistive force – up to 40 pounds – in the hinge that can spring the wearer back up when they bend their knee. This results in lower forces in the knee and typically less pain and improved function. Icarus is the first to integrate 3D scanning, design automation, and 3D printing to develop functional, highly tailored, and conforming orthopedic braces.
The core technology involves the manipulation of force across the joint that is controllable by the user. This technology can be applied to improve the standard of care for a range of medical devices. Icarus is based in downtown Charlottesville and is actively hiring for many positions!