ORTHOSES-PLASTIC AFO COMPONENTS

SUMMARY

1. Footplate: should extend beyond the MT heads. Can extend beyond the toes to reduce spasticity.

2. Ankle and subtalar joints. These can be made more stable by: (1) extend the trim line more anteriorly at the ankle level (2) thicker plastic material (3) carbon inserts along the medial & lateral aspects of the ankle joint (4) corrugations within the posterior leaf.

3. Ankle hinges allow ankle motion permitting a more natural gait & adding mediolateral stability; used when complete restriction of ankle motion is not required.

4. The leg component should encompass three quarters of the leg and should be padded along its internal surface, stopping 1 inch below the fibular neck to prevent a compressive common peroneal nerve palsy.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.