'cerebral palsy'

A double-action ankle joint ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a type of orthotic device designed to support and stabilize the ankle and foot. It features two separate joints, one for dorsiflexion (lifting the foot up) and one for plantarflexion (pointing the foot down). This dual-joint mechanism allows for more natural and controlled movement of the ankle, helping to address various conditions affecting gait and stability. Here are some key points about a double-action AFO: Functionality: The double-action joints provide the ability to control both upward and downward motion of the foot. This helps in managing conditions like foot drop, where the foot cannot be lifted properly, or other gait abnormalities. Customization: These AFOs are often custom-made to fit the individual\'s specific anatomy and needs. Adjustments can be made to fine-tune the range of motion and alignment. Materials: They are typically made from lightweight and durable materials such as thermoplastics or carbon fiber, which offer a balance of strength and flexibility. Indications: They are used for conditions like cerebral palsy, stroke, peripheral neuropathy, or other neurological or musculoskeletal disorders that affect ankle and foot function. Design: The double-action mechanism allows for controlled movement and can help in improving gait, stability, and overall mobility.

AFO WITHOUT JOINT:  Ankle foot orthoses AFOs are external biomechanical devices utilized on lower limbs to stabilize the joints, improve the gait and physical functioning of the affected lower limb. AFO is used as supportive devices and aid for ambulation through different gait stages by providing foot clearance, used to limit or assist ankle and foot ROM like; dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, improve balance, decrease the risk of falling, help with weak musculature of lower legs, and to return to previous activity or facilitate patient mobility.  They are found in different types and different materials and can be modified according to the use and the development of the person if it is used for children. They made from thermoformed plastic material that enables to add modification and adjustments. AFOs are used as night splints to prevent contractures in some cases, patients with stroke, and other neurological conditions such as SCI and children with cerebral palsy.

A Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) is a custom made brace that starts above the knee and extends all the way down the leg to the end of the toes. These braces will normally include a knee joint and possibly an ankle joint as well. A KAFO is prescribed by your physician when there is significant weakness and/or instability at the knee and ankle joints. The KAFO will allow patients to stand by locking the knee joint in the brace when the thigh muscles are too weak to support the knee. This brace can also reduce significant knee hyperextension (genu recurvatum) during the gait cycle. KAFOs can be extended to the hip to provide additional support to the hip joint if necessary.  The KAFO is commonly used in the treatment of: 1-Blount’s Disease 2-Genu Recurvatum 3-Post-Polio 4-Spinal Cord Injury 5-Arthrogryposis 6-Cerebral Palsy 7-Polio 8-Spina Bifida  At your initial assessment you will meet with your Orthotist to go through a complete assessment of your strength and range of motion and undergo an observational gait analysis. There are many different designs of KAFOs, each with different functions and levels of support. In collaboration with your Orthotist at OrthoProActive and your health team, we will determine which KAFO design will help to provide you with the best functional outcomes.