Ankle Foot Orthoses (Foot drop splint) are braces designed to support, align, correct, protect or improve function of the foot and ankle. Several designs are employed, depending on the client's individual needs. Most of the custom made AFO's are made from plastic which is molded to a model (cast) of the client's leg. The client is assessed and a mold is taken to produce a brace that contours to the individual leg. We also make Conventional Style AFO's from measurements which are made of metal and leather and attached to the client's shoe.
Hinged ankle foot orthosis are effective devices that are used to control plantar and/or dorsi flexion (up or down movement of the foot) and side to side movement. Several designs are used with a large variety of joints (hinges) available. The type of joint selection is based on the client needs and consideration is made for weight and shape of device. The hinged AFO is most often used for people who have had a stroke (CVA) or Cerebral Palsy. The hinged ankle foot orthosis can be plastic - see picture of custom hinged ankle foot orthosis, or Klenzak orthosis (conventional style).
Custom made hinged ankle foot orthoses Klenzac Orthosis
Flexible ankle foot orthosis- a light weight straightforward design that prevents the foot from plantar flexing (dropping) to allow a smooth swing of the foot without catching the toe on the ground. Variations in the shape and strapping are made based on client needs. The Flexible AFO is usually made from polypropylene plastic with hook and loop (Velcro) closures for the strap. The flexible AFO is often used for people who have had a stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis, poliomyelitis or other nerve injuries.
Custom made flexible ankle foot orthoses (shoe-horn brace)
Tubular ankle foot orthosis- also called a circumferential AFO, the tubular AFO encloses the entire lower leg and foot. The removable, cast-like brace provides ultimate stability and protection for the leg and foot. The brace is lined usually with foam and leather to give added protection to the sensitive skin. The tubular AFO is most often used for people with complications from Diabetes Mellitus or other Peripheral Neuropathies. (Sorry no picture yet)
CharcotRestraint Orthotic Walker - also known as a CROW is a custom made brace that is designed to immobilize the foot and ankle and offload pressure. It is commonly used for people who have complications due to diabetic neuropathy such as diabetic ulcers and/or a Charcot Joint. The brace is designed to be worn without a shoe and has a regular sole on the bottom with a rockered shape to allow for a smooth gait.
CROW Walker
Silicone Ankle Foot Orthosis (SAFO)- the SAFO is a new design used for people who have a flaccid paralysis of the feet with pathologies such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Poliomyelitis, Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury. The circumferential design offers optimal proprioception (so you "know where your feet are") with excellent plantar flexion (dropfoot) control. The very low profile device can be worn with or without shoes. Photo courtesy of Dorset Orthopaedic Company Ltd.
SAFO "Walk" SAFO "Go"
Plantar Fasciitis Night-splint - the night-splint is used to stretch out the achilles tendon to reduce forces at the plantar fascia for people who have chronic plantar fasciitis.
