office@orthotics.co.uk 0330 088 3949 Book now
Home About us Medico legal Services Finance options Who we work with Contact us
Types of orthotics Robotics Flat head syndrome Sport and performance Services Assessments and reports Apos Therapy Bespoke orthotics Consultancy Foot drop clinic Gait analysis Home visits Lycra clinic Multidisciplinary assessments Paediatric clinic Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly clinic Review Robotics clinic Second opinions Spasticity clinic Sport and performance clinic Training and courses Types of orthotics Ankle and foot orthotics Children's services Dynamic stretching orthotics Functional electric stimulation Head and face protection Hernia supports Hip braces Insoles KAFO's Knee braces Lycra orthoses Neck and shoulder orthoses Spasticity management Specialised footwear Spinal orthotics Upper limb orthotics

Children's AFO

Children's AFO

AFOs specifically designed for children are typically custom made and provide support whilst allowing them to continue developing, growing and maximising their potential.

What are the indications for use of a children's AFO?

There are many indications for using a Children’s AFO. These include:

  • Ankle instability
  • Foot drop
  • Low tone crouch gait
  • Spastic tone
  • Toe-walker

If you are unsure if an AFO would be suitable for your child please contact us to discuss.

What conditions are AFOs often used to treat?

AFOs are provided to children with a wide variety of conditions which include:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Spina Bifida
  • Genetic Disorders
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Hypermobility

This list of conditions is not exhaustive. If you are unsure if an AFO would be suitable for your child please contact us to discuss.

What are the benefits of your child using an AFO?

There are many benefits that come from using an AFO. These include:

  • A more fluid and natural walking pattern
  • Supports the foot in a more functional position
  • Increased support and stability
  • Can be designed to provide increased or reduced plantar flexion (pointing your toes) and/or dorsiflexion (lifting your toes)
  • Medial/lateral (side to side) ankle stability
  • Reduce muscle tone
  • Reduce falls

There are many benefits using an AFO to find out more please contact us to discuss.

What types of Children’s AFOs are available?

Types of Children’s AFO that may be used include:

  • Trulife Child’s Play Matrix
  • KiddieGAIT

Trulife Child’s Play Matrix

This AFO is designed with children in mind, it is made using carbon composite ensuring it is durable for an active child. The device has an anterior shell, lateral strut and a footplate with an open calcaneus space. The anterior shell is height adjustable to enable the device to continue to work as your child grows.

KiddieGAIT

KiddieGAIT is a lightweight AFO made from carbon composite. This device holds the foot and ankle in a functional position enabling children to walk in a more fluid, natural way. The KiddieGAIT can be adapted via comfort kits to provide additional padding, soft shells to allow for customisation and can also be combined with an additional orthotic if further control of foot position is required.

What is the process to be receive an AFO for my child?

The process to receive an AFO would be:

  • Assessment
  • Measuring / Casting
  • Fitting
  • Review

In order for your child to receive the best AFO, they will need to meet with one of our orthotists who will complete an in depth assessment looking specifically at how your child walks and the range of movement at their foot and ankle. Following this they will take a number of different measurements to ensure the correctly sized device is selected. If the orthotist advises a bespoke device they will then need to take a plaster cast mould of the foot and leg. Your child will have a choice of a range of patterns to put on their own splints and we fit our splints with plenty of discreet padding to guarantee comfort.

How do I arrange an assessment for an AFO for my child?

To get in touch or arrange an appointment, you can call us at 0330 088 3949 or email office@orthotics.co.uk.

Send us a message...

Related pages