Plastic Ankle-Foot Orthoses: Indications and Functions

Plastic Ankle-Foot Orthoses: Indications and Functions

H. Richard Lehneis, Ph.D., C.P.O. 

Prescription of plastic ankle-foot orthoses at the Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, New York University Medical Center (IRM-NYUMC) has, over approximately the past 12 years, been based on the identification of a pathomechanical condition affecting the ankle-foot complex for the purpose of matching that condition with a bio-mechanical device (plastic ankle-foot orthosis). Over the years, this basic system has been improved to include modifying factors such as spasticity and sensory status. 

Table I.

Table II.

Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, and Fig. 5.

Figure 1. Posterior Leaf Spring Ankle Foot Orthosis.

Figure 2. Hemi Posterior Leaf Spring Ankle Foot Orthosis.

Figure 3. Spinal Ankle Foot Orthosis.

Figure 4. Hemi Spiral Ankle Foot Orthosis.

Figure 5. Posterior Solid Ankle Foot Orthosis.

Table I and Table II have been used successfully in the training of physicians, orthotists, therapists, and other health-related personnel. We hope that the readers of the Newsletter find these tables useful in their respective clinics to clarify indications and contraindications for the various AFO's.