Orthotics - Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) for Children

Introduction

This leaflet is for parents and carers of children who have been provided with an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) by the Orthotics service. It will explain how to care for the AFO and give other important information about the Orthotics service.

We hope you find this information useful.

If you require further information, or if your child is unable to attend an appointment, please telephone the Orthotics department where the appointment has been made as soon as possible:

Bury, Rochdale or Oldham: 0161 778 2670
Email: nca.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

Salford: 0161 206 4912
Email: salford.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

For further information about our service, please visit:

www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/orthotics

Our sites are open for collection and dropping off devices:

Bury: Tuesdays only
Rochdale: Thursdays only
Oldham: Mondays only
Salford: Monday - Friday

What is an AFO?

Your child has been supplied with an AFO which is designed to control their foot and ankle.
The Orthotist has designed this device for your child’s specific problem, so if you notice any changes in your child’s limb, or if you feel that the AFO provides inadequate control, you must let the Orthotics department know immediately.

What is my child’s entitlement?

Your child is entitled to one AFO or a pair of AFO's if both limbs are affected. However, they will be given a second item or pair after inspection of the original AFO by the Orthotist for the following reasons:

• If your child outgrows the AFO
• If the original AFO is found to be clinically ineffective by the Orthotist
• If the original AFO is beyond repair

Theft, loss or damage to your AFO

If your child’s AFO is stolen you will need to obtain a crime number from the police before we are able to order a replacement.

If your AFO is lost or damaged (either accidentally or maliciously) you will be asked to pay for its replacement. The average cost of replacement of a single paediatric ankle foot orthosis is £240.

How should the AFO be worn?

• The AFO should be worn over a cotton sock
• Sit your child in front of you with hips and knees bent
• Position the foot so it is at 90° to the leg. Your Physiotherapist or Orthotist should have shown you the best way to do this
• Place the heel in the back of the splint and fasten the heel strap securely
• Fasten all other straps securely
• Apply the shoe (low heeled, laced casuals are most appropriate)

Are there any safety precautions I should take?

• Check that straps are secure and remain secure when standing
• Regularly check the AFO for wear or damage

How should I care for the AFO?

• Clean the AFO regularly with mild soap and water without immersing it fully in water
• Dry with a towel, away from direct sources of heat such as a radiator
• Any joints should be cleaned regularly using an old toothbrush or similar
• Look after the AFO and return it for repair. You should never attempt to modify or adjust the AFO yourself

What problems should I be aware of?

If you notice any of the following, please contact the Orthotics department as soon as possible:

• Skin redness that doesn’t fade after 15 minutes
• Sores or blisters on the skin
• Pain, irritation or rubbing
• Any damage to the AFO
• Any complaints of discomfort after the child has been wearing the AFO comfortably may mean that the AFO has been outgrown or need adjusting

Further appointments

Following supply of the first AFO(s) a review appointment will be arranged at the discretion of the Orthotist. You will also be told about the follow up procedure. However, if you feel your child’s condition has worsened, or they are experiencing problems with the orthosis, you can ask to see the Orthotist for a review appointment by telephoning the Orthotics department where you had your original appointment: