Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO:
Custom Support for Children's Feet
Discover how AFOs can improve your child's mobility and stability.
Indications Your Child May Need AFOs:
- Foot/Ankle Instability
- Knee Instability
- Hypertonia or Hypotonia
- Contractures
- Drop Foot
- Extreme toe walking
Understanding AFOs
What is an AFO?
An Ankle Foot Orthosis is a custom-made inner foot and ankle brace that extends just below the knee. It's designed to correct foot and ankle disorders in children, offering more control than traditional SMOs.
How it Works
AFOs improve walking patterns by reducing, preventing, or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot. They support weak muscles and can be fixed or hinged at the ankle.
Benefits of AFOs for Children
Improved Mobility
Helps children walk more easily and steadily. AFOs give kids extra support, making it easier to move around without getting tired. This means fewer stumbles and more confidence when walking.
Muscle Support
Gives extra strength to weak leg and foot muscles. By providing support where muscles are struggling, AFOs help prevent tiredness and keep muscles working properly. This helps children move more smoothly and comfortably.
Corrective Function
Helps feet and ankles grow in the right position. As children develop, AFOs can gently guide bones and joints to grow more correctly. This can prevent future problems and help kids move better.
Comfort
Made to fit each child perfectly and feel good. Every AFO is custom-designed to match a child's unique body, making it comfortable to wear. This means kids can focus on playing and moving, not worrying about their brace.
Types of AFOs
Indy 2 Stage
This exceptional ”orthosis within an orthosis” allows for the Surestep SMO to be utilized independent of the AFO. Children can work through a variety of transitional skills without impeding normal muscle function.
Advanced AFO
Suitable for children up to 80 lbs., the Advanced increases sagittal plane stability and prevents plantarflexion to allow for varying degrees of dorsiflexion. We built the Advanced to be adaptable.
Big Shot AFO
Our Big Shot AFO is a fixed ankle solution that provides relief for bony prominences. The cutouts offer a more comfortable, flexible fit without compromising stability.
Pullover AFO
The Pullover is able to be used as a Surestep SMO to start, and then as a free-motion, dorsiflexion assist AFO when needed. This makes our Pullover the perfect solution for children with mild hemiplegia who need that little bit of extra help to get on the right path.
Hinged AFO
For children who present with excessive plantarflexion, the Surestep Hinged may be an appropriate solution. This orthosis provides more sagittal plane stability by utilizing a plantarflexion stop while allowing free dorsiflexion.
Servicing Minnesota in the Buffalo, Hutchinson, Plymouth and Waconia areas.