What are AFOs? - Cerebral Palsy Message Board

Sasha615 · 07-21-2004, 08:58 PM

i was reading my medical records today and they said when i was 4 i had AFOs. My question is what are AFOs. i'm just curious and i don't think my guardian is sure what they are.
Thanks
Sasha615

PajamaMomma · 07-21-2004, 10:04 PM

Hi! My son wears DAFO's, which are very similar to AFO's but are made of a more lightweight flexible type plasic rather than the stiffer thicker plasic of most AFO's. AFO's are 'ankle foot orthosis'. Basically an ankle brace. They are most often used for spastic CP, but other types as well. They are made to help align and straighten the position of the foot and anke, and aid in helping to stand and weight bear without the foot or ankle shifting into an incorrect postion. Also to help reduce tone in proximal muscle groups and thereby improve function. I hope that cleared it up a bit for you!

Flycatcher · 07-22-2004, 03:53 AM

Sounds like they've replaced the steel leg braces us older folks wore with plastic versions. That has to be a lot lighter - and less apt to squeak.
Jack

musicmaker650 · 07-22-2004, 09:28 AM

Yes,
all my braces for legs and ankles were made from heavy steel and leather

Zagreus · 07-22-2004, 09:33 AM

Yes, my son's have all been made from plastic. But not all manufacturers are equal. Early on the plastic was still pretty heavy, but later his therapists started ordering from a company called Cascade in Oregon, I believe. Those devices were significantly lighter and more comfortable. He's really enjoying these weeks where he's been free of the brace though. I hope he doesn't have to return to one at the end of the summer.