You have been prescribed a knee ankle foot othosis (KAFO). It has been made just for you by your Orthotist.
What are KAFOs used for?
- To improve your walking pattern
- To realign some or all of the joints in your leg
- To provide support to weakened or weakening muscles
- To prevent movement which is a detriment to walking
- To reduce pain
- To provide protection
You will be provided with two KAFO’s so that you have a spare if one needs to go for repair.
How do I put on my KAFO?
It is important that you put your KAFO on properly to make it comfortable and prevent rubbing.
Your Orthotist will carefully explain and show the fitting process to you. If you have any questions please feel free to ask.
What footwear should I use with my KAFO?
Your KAFO should always be worn with a well-fitting shoe.
Appropriate footwear would have:
- approximately a 2.5 centimetre (1 inch) heel height
removable inlays
a low opening
a strong and firm upper material
a lace, Velcro, or other supportive fastening
a wide heel
If your KAFO will not fit into your shoes you may need to choose a half or a whole size bigger.
How long will it take for me to get used to wearing my KAFO?
You will need to take some time to get used to your KAFO. This list suggests the length of time you should try and wear it each day.
- Day 1 - 30 minutes
- Day 2 - 1 hour
- Day 3 - 1 to 2 hours
- Day 4 - 2 hours
- Day 5 - 3 hours
- Day 6+ - continue increasing wear time by an hour each day until you can wear your KAFO all day except night time.
It is usual to have some mild red marking to your skin as you begin wearing your KAFO. If red marks stay 40 minutes after taking your KAFO off, or you notice your symptoms getting any worse, please stop wearing it and contact the Orthotic Department for a review.
How do I look after my KAFO?
You will need to look after your KAFO and keep it clean.
- You can clean it with a damp cloth and leave to air dry
- If the Velcro straps, knee joints or lining of your KAFO become worn, please bring it into the Orthotic Department for repair
- Please do not try to adapt or fix the KAFO yourself
- Your KAFO has been prescribed for you and should not be given to anyone else as this could cause them problems
- Keep your KAFO away from pets and children
- Your KAFO needs to be checked every six months to make sure it is in good working order. We will contact you about this
- If you feel at any point that your KAFO(s) need attention please do not hesitate to contact the Orthotic department
Who do I contact if I have a problem?
If you need any help, please contact the Orthotic Department on 01709 424385
