Special prosthetic enables ballerina to dance again after 13 years

After a tragic car accident crushed one of her legs, Mel Reis, feared that she would never be able to dance again. But life gave the amateur Brazilian ballerina a second chance in the form of a special ‘en pointe’ prosthesis.

The 31-year-old had to have the lower part of her left leg amputated in 2014 after doctors were unable to save her limb despite several surgeries. However, Dr. Jose Andre Carvalho, director of the Campinas Institute of Prosthesis and Orthosis, successfully built a prosthesis limb for Reis so that she could dance again. Reis, who is now a multi-media designer, claims that the prosthetic was ‘near perfect’ and feels like she is ‘living a dream’, reports Metro.uk.

Dr. Carvalho explains that his invention required the application of concepts of biomechanics and mathematical calculations to ensure that the graceful posture of the ballerina is maintained while carrying her weight. The prosthetic foot is made from carbon fibre and gypsum mould with a pylon rod for support.