A Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) is a long-leg orthosis that spans the knee, the ankle, and the foot in an effort to stabilize the joints and assist the muscles of the leg. While there are several common indications for such an Orthosis, muscle weakness and paralysis of the leg are the ones most frequently identified. The most common causes of muscle weakness include, Poliomyelitis, Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis and Spinal Cord Injury,

Until recently, the best option for a patient with weakness of the muscles that control the knee was to wear a KAFO with a locked knee joint. This provided stability to the knee to prevent involuntary flexion, but caused other associated problems like muscle atrophy and increased energy expenditure in gait. Within the past few years, a newer design of knee joint has been developed that can automatically lock and unlock at the appropriate phases of the gait cycle to allow a more fluidic walking style. These knee joints can be used to create a KAFO that is appropriate for certain patients with knee weakness that fit the treatment criteria of the system.

Each KAFO is custom-made to the specific requirements of the individual.  There are numerous design options available that make usage of the Orthosis both functional and comfortable. A detailed examination and assessment of the patient allows us to suggest the best available component combination.

Conventional KAFO

Conventional KAFO’s are custom made from a cast or tracing of the leg. These devices are made with metal and leather and attach directly to the shoe. Despite being a much older design and construction, they continue to be an option for patients who are accustomed to their fit and feel and can help some patients who have issues with the more intimate/enclosed fit of a more modern design.

Traditional Thermoplastic KAFO

Traditional Thermoplastic KAFO’s are custom made from a cast or tracing of the leg. They are custom made by first molding heated plastic (thermoplastics) to a modified replica of the leg. They have become popularized as a lighter and more cosmetically appealing design option, with a great many options for different levels of functionality and personalization. Although the majority are manufactured using thermoplastics, they can also be manufactured using carbon fiber laminates.

Stance Control KAFO

Stance Control KAFO’s are custom made from a cast or scan of the leg. These more advanced devices belong to a family of KAFOs that provide knee stability through “stance control”. The knee locks and unlocks to allow for a more efficient walking pattern, and in some cases, “smart orthoses” can provide variable resistance and/or functional assistance to movements as required in each individual case.