A powered orthotic system includes a wearable component having a brace with a first section and a second section. The first and second sections are coupled to each other at a pivot. Each section is adapted to be removably attached to a corresponding first and second limb segment such that the pivot is proximate to a joint between each limb segment. The first and the second sections are movable with respect to each other to define flexion and extension directions. The wearable component also includes an electromyographic sensor, an electrically powered actuator assembly in communication with the electromyographic sensor, and a controller in communication with the actuator assembly that provides system parameters to control operation of the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly is coupled to the first and the second sections so as to apply a force that moves the first and the second sections in the flexion and/or extension directions and the force is based on signals from the electromyographic sensor. The actuator assembly is positioned proximate to the pivot. The system also includes a control unit in communication with the wearable component. The control unit includes a processor that modifies the system parameters in the controller and a user interface, in communication with the processor, that permits user selection of the system parameters.