Orthoses Flashcards
Recognize and define the following abbreviations: FO, AFO, KAFO, HKAFO, THKAFO
FO: Foot orthosis (applies to foot in/outside the shoe -metatarsal pads, lifts)
AFO: Ankle-foot orthosis (encompass shoe, terminate below knee)
KAFO: Knee-ankle-foot orthosis (extends from shoe to thigh)
HKAFO: Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO + pelvic band around lower trunk)
THKAFO: trunk-hip-knee-ankle-foot orthosis (covers part of thorax + lower extremities)
How to FO’d function?
they relieve pain by transferring weight-induced stress to pressure-tolerant sites
this protects painful areas from contact with shoe
also corrects alignment, can improve transition during stance-phase
Why are AFO’s prescribed?
to control ankle motion by limitingor assisting plantar and/or dorsiflexion
What risk does weak dorsiflexors cause? How can an AFO help?
dorsiflexor weakness = dragging the toe during swing phase (leading to falls)
assistance by AFO is provided in early swing phase as pt applies force to braced foot, plastic recoils to lift foot
What were the positive results of the research done with patients given AFO’s?
Adults with hemiplegia = increased step cadence, walking speed, step length, and improved dorsiflexion
AFO enable some pts to walk with increased stride length and cadence
Who is the KAFO for? what does it consist of?
KAFO is for pts with more extensive paralysis/limb deformity
It consists of a shoe, foundation, ankle control, knee control and superstructure
usually include paired uprights + knee hinges that restrict medial-lateral movement and hyperextension
What extra prevention does an HKAFO provide?
prevents hip abduction, adduction, and rotation
Who is the THKAFO for? Why is it seldom worn after pt discharge?
it’s for pts who need more stability in the lumbosacral region than HKAFO can provide.
seldom worn after rehab because of weight and effort needed to get in and out of orthosis
