Innovators since the beginning when prosthetics were still made with wood, RGP initiated the use of fiberglass materials in the 50's and became one of the first 100 facilities in the country to receive a certificate of approval from the American Board of Certification (ABC). RGP further excelled in research and development and became a national leader in the newest in prosthetic innovations.

In 1972 Guth's sons, Thomas and Joe, came to work at RGP as a certified Prosthetist and Orthotist respectively. Upon the retirement in 1975 of Guth Sr., the brothers continued to pursue advancements and established themselves as San Diego's most reputable Prosthetic & Orthotic facility. With that growth, the Orthotics and Prosthetic divisions split in 1993 making the newly named RGP Prosthetic Research Center the west coasts largest independent prosthetic facility.

It was in the early 80's that Guth turned away from fiberglass and pioneered the use of flexible, thermoplastic materials which reduce the weight of the prosthesis and maximize comfort. Adding a carbon fiber frame and windows for stability, the two piece socket design has given amputees a new freedom of movement and energy like never before. The custom, total-contact, suction design has practically eliminated pistoning in the socket, increased stability and the ability to maximize energy storing potential.

Always patient driven, Guth co-developed the CAT-CAM Ischial Containment suction socket in 1985 which revolutionized the quality of life for above knee amputees. By containing the Ischiam bone, Guth aligned the pelvis with the femur enabling amputees to walk and run leg over leg instead of kicking and dragging the leg forward. "By containing the Ischiam and providing a lightweight suction fit, we are able to put the prosthesis in a position that is aligned with the body allowing amputees to walk with a natural gait pattern," said Guth.

Confirming that these new designs have allowed amputees to become more active, Guth and fellow developers became the first in the prosthetics industry to support disabled sports organizations that sanction organized competition and recreation for amputees. With the new lightweight, durable and comfortable developments, amputee athletes became the proving ground for advanced components and new socket fitting techniques. Their demand for a higher level of performance pushed for better prosthetics and in turn has allowed amputees of all ages to be more active. Seeing over 50% of the patient base on a national and international level, RGP has come to specialize in fitting those who desire to live a more active lifestyle, regardless of age.

One of the first facilities in the United States to obtain the BioSculptor computer aided design system, RGP continues to search for the most accurate fitting techniques that ensure a total-contact suction fit. "Our goal is to design a custom prosthesis that fits the lifestyle of amputees, not one that the amputee has to adjust their life to," added Guth. "Until a prosthesis is considered an advantage instead of a disability, we will continue to research new developments that encourage active lifestyles for amputees of all ages."