Patent ID: 8100967

Claim:
An implantable system for manipulating energy transferred by members defining a joint, comprising: a first attachment structure configured to be attached to a first member of the joint; a second attachment structure configured to be attached to a second member of the joint; and an adjustable energy absorbing device attached to the first attachment structure and second attachment structure, the adjustable energy absorbing device comprises a shaft attached to a first base, an outer component attached to a second base, wherein the shaft translates inside of the outer component, a spring mounted coaxial with the shaft and outer component, the spring and outer component providing no limitation or resistance to a distance of translation of the shaft within the outer component in a direction of extension, wherein adjusting the energy absorbing device changes the amount of load the energy absorbing device can accommodate and wherein a lesser amount of load absorption occurs as the members defining the joint move from their extension position through greater degrees of flexion.