AFO Types

Question 1

stirrup/double upright indications

Answer 1

increase concern for skin integrity

chronic edema issues

Question 2

stirrup/double upright considerations

Answer 2

permanently attached to shoe
heavy, clunky
can be unlocked to allow for DF

Question 3

solid indications

Answer 3

significant LE weakness or hypotonia requiring max stability
primary brace for spasticity
alignment issues

Question 4

solid considerations

Answer 4

rigid plastic, minimal pliability
provides good support but limited mobility - non ambulatory pt
good for M/L stability at ankle
can include anterior shelf for knee control

Question 5

pre-hinged indications

Answer 5

significant weakness but anticipate continued motor return and potential to progress to articulated AFO

Question 6

pre-hinged considerations

Answer 6

great option to allow the brace to progress with the pt

can add a removable anterior plastic shell to help with knee buckling

Question 7

hinged/articulated indications

Answer 7

active DF and PF

adequate knee control

Question 8

hinged/articulated considerations

Answer 8

provides adjusted ankle control
good M/L stability
allows for reciprocal gait

Question 9

knee-ankle-foot (KAFO) indications

Answer 9

most commonly used for paraplegia

can be used with hemiplegia - severe knee hyperextension & M/L instability at knee

Question 10

KAFO considerations

Answer 10

• most can be progressed to solid AFO
• knee joint can be locked to provide maximal sagittal plane support during standing/walking tasks
• VERY heavy and clunky