Q1: AFO - Clinical Considerations & By the Numbers

Question 1

AFO considerations

Answer 1

Age and ambulatory status

Question 2

Age considerations - NICU/Infant & Toddler

Answer 2

Usually born prematurely
Rapidly changing presentation; frequent follow ups
Low temperature plastics allow for limited touching and quicker fitting (no casting)
No stiff materials

Question 3

Age considerations - Child & Teen

Answer 3

Keeping up with peers (activity level), Force considerations, Growth
Needs to be “nimble”/adjustable
Talk to family about “red flags” to look for when they may be outgrowing their device

Question 4

Age considerations - Young Adult/Adult

Answer 4

Orthosis life, Cosmetic concerns
Insurance will not pay as often (durability is important)

Question 5

Age considerations - Geriatrics

Answer 5

Multiple diagnoses, Don/Doff ability, Caretaker involvement
Need to be able to think outside the box (especially with don/doff problems)
Look for cognitive obstacles
Talk to caretakers as well

Question 6

Considerations - Ambulatory

Answer 6

Keep patient walking as long as possible; family will want to see a normal gait (this may not be realistic)