Orthotics - Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO)

Introduction

This leaflet is for people who have been provided with a knee ankle foot orthosis (KAFO) by the Orthotics service. It will explain how you should care for your KAFO and other important information about the Orthotics service.

We hope you find this information useful. If you require further information or are unable to attend an appointment, please telephone the Orthotics department where the appointment has been made for you 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 does the KAFO do?

You have been supplied with a KAFO which is designed to control the knee, ankle and foot joints when deformity and/ or instability are present. The Orthotist has designed this device for your specific problem, so if you experience any changes in your limb or if you feel that the KAFO provides inadequate control you must let the Orthotics department know immediately.

What am I entitled to?

You are entitled to one KAFO (or a pair of KAFO's if both limbs affected). A second item (or pair) will only be provided if:

• you need the device long term,
• it is deemed to be clinically effective
• you are unable to function without it
• if your original KAFO(s) is beyond repair

Theft, loss or damage of your KAFO

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

If your KAFO is lost or damaged (either accidentally or maliciously) you will be asked to pay for its replacement. The average cost of replacement of a KAFO is £600.

How should I wear the KAFO?

• Fit the spurs of the caliper into the socket in your shoe
• Whilst seated on a bed or chair place your leg in the device ensuring your foot is comfortably in your shoe
• Fasten all straps securely
• Extend your knee to ensure the lock is working properly
• Regularly check your KAFO for wear or damage
• If your KAFO has a plastic foot section you should place your foot into this section and then apply the upper section to your leg. Fasten all straps securely and then place your foot/plastic section into your shoe and secure the shoe fastening. This procedure should be performed whilst seated

How should I care for my KAFO?

• Joints should be cleaned regularly using an old toothbrush or similar, never immerse the KAFO in water
• Dry the KAFO with a towel away from direct sources of heat and cold
• As a minimum your KAFO should be checked every 6 months by your Orthotist or more frequently if advised
• Look after the KAFO and return it for maintenance and repair when necessary. Never attempt to repair/adjust the KAFO yourself
• If your KAFO has spurs which fit into a tube in the heel of your shoe, the spurs should have a small amount of Vaseline applied once per month to keep the spur lubricated in the tube

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 KAFO

Further appointments

Following supply of your KAFO you will be reviewed at the discretion of the Orthotist. The follow up procedure will also be explained to you.

However, if you feel your condition has worsened, not improved or you are experiencing problems with your KAFO, you can ask to see the Orthotist for a review by telephoning the Orthotic department where you had your original appointment.