Orthoses on the Web

Last Updated: 10/27/1996.

Information about Ankle-Foot-Orthoses

The term orthotic appears to have two meanings. The term is sometimes used to refer to a foot orthoses (FO) that fits completely inside the shoe. It is also used in a more general sense to include foot orthoses(FO), ankle-foot-orthoses (AFO), or knee-ankle-foot-orthoses (KAFO).

There are two basic types of ankle foot orthoses that appear to be used to improve gait and stability for individuals with CMT. Plastic AFOs fit inside the shoe. Double uprights metal braces are built into the shoe itself. Plastic AFOs appear to be more common then the metal type for treating CMT.

Plastic AFOs can be made rigid (unbending), or with a hinge at the ankle. The hinge can allow for both free plantarflexion (downward motion) and free dorsiflexion motion (upward motion). Alternatively, hinged AFOs can be made that allow free doriflection motion but prevent plantarflexion motion by incorporating a stop in the brace. Alternatively, hinged AFOs can be fabricated with a spring to assist in the dorsiflextion motion (help lift the dropped foot).

There are also off-the-shelf ankle braces available to protect the ankle while recovering from an ankle sprain. The advertisements say they are for athletes to use while healing from a sprain, though the advertisements also indicate that they are useful for individuals suffering from chronic ankle sprains.

Finally, there are night braces available to keep the foot in the proper position while the individual is asleep.

Splints used to assist the hands and wrists are not discussed here.

Color

Ankle-foot-orthoses can be made in colors, not just white. The white (natural) plastic is easier to work with during the fabricating process, but colored plastic is also available. The range of colors depends on the type of plastic being used to fabricate the brace, and what is available from the particular supplier that the orthotist uses. Ask.

General

Research labs

Orthotics organization descriptions

Descriptions of orthotics organizations from the Department of Educations. Note that the addresses supplied in these files are incorrect.

Schools that teach about orthoses

Orthotics societies and journals

Manfactacturers

There are dozens if not hundreds of companies that manufacture foot orthotic components.

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