Fumio Usui, a prosthetist based in Tokyo, has been credited with changing lives through his groundbreaking work. Considered a pioneer in his field, Usui is responsible for introducing sports prosthetics to Japan and has played a crucial role in the success of several Paralympians. As the Paris Paralympics bring renewed energy to the French capital, Usui revealed that prominent Japanese para athletes such as badminton bronze medalist Daisuke Fujihara and runner Sae Tsuji have relied on his equipment to excel at the games.
Usui’s journey began when he witnessed his elementary school teacher undergo leg amputation. This experience sparked his interest in amputees and disability issues. In his late twenties, while unemployed, he stumbled upon a job vacancy at Japan’s largest prosthetic manufacturer. With no formal qualifications required at the time, Usui joined the organization now known as the Tetsudo Kousaikai Foundation’s Prosthetics and Orthotics Support Center.
Driven by a desire to help people, especially children, Usui found inspiration from athletes using sports prosthetics at international events like the Paralympics. He was determined to bring this technology to Japan just as more flexible carbon prostheses were emerging on the market.
Over time, Usui became renowned as Japan’s go-to expert for prosthetics and was sought out by past, present, and aspiring Paralympians alike. One such athlete is Shino Kawai who aims to compete in Los Angeles 2028 after narrowly missing qualification for Paris due to her recent amputation.
Usui’s impact extends beyond elite athletes; ordinary individuals throughout Japan have also benefited from his skills. Every Wednesday evening at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium’s running track, people gather for training sessions led by Usui himself. This dedicated group includes both non-disabled runners and Paralympic hopefuls who push themselves under Usui’s guidance.
The influence of Usui’s work has even reached other entrepreneurs like Ken Endo of Xiborg Inc., which develops advanced daily-use and sports-specific prostheses using biomechanics technology. Xiborg products such as “Blade for All” cater to everyday life needs while “Blade for The One” targets serious sports competitors.
Despite reaching retirement age, Usui remains committed to his work but acknowledges that younger specialists are being trained within their support center in Arakawa Ward. However, he hopes to continue making a difference indefinitely because bringing happiness through helping others is what drives him.
