Final answer:
The C-leg prosthesis, an advanced microprocessor-controlled system for above-knee amputees, was first released in the 1990s. It provides a natural gait and adaptability to different terrains, significantly improving the mobility and quality of life for its users.
Step-by-step explanation:
The C-leg prosthesis was first released in the 1990s. This innovative prosthesis represented a significant advancement in biomechanical technology, providing amputees with a more natural gait and increased stability. Developed by a German company named Ottobock, the C-leg was the first fully microprocessor-controlled leg prosthesis system designed for above-knee amputees.
With sensors and microprocessors, it adapts to various terrains and walking speeds, thereby improving the quality of life for its users. The continual improvements in prosthetic design, like the C-leg, have greatly expanded the range of activities possible for recipients. These advancements illustrate how modern engineering and medical sciences work together to enhance human mobility.