Lower Extremity Orthosis
From custom foot orthoses to KAFOs — bracing and support for the foot, ankle, knee, hip and leg.
Custom Orthoses for the Foot, Ankle, Knee & Hip
The lower extremity is at the heart of what we do. From custom foot orthoses to complex lower extremity bracing, we provide individualized solutions for children and adults with a wide range of orthopaedic, neurological and developmental needs.
Some individuals may only require support beneath the foot, while others need additional control at the ankle, knee or hip. Our Certified Orthotists assess gait, strength, range of motion, alignment and functional goals to determine the appropriate orthosis and level of support for each individual.
Foot Orthoses (FOs)
Custom foot orthoses are individually designed to support the foot, improve alignment, redistribute pressure and reduce pain during standing and walking.
At Custom Orthotics of London, every foot orthosis begins with an assessment of your feet, gait, footwear and individual needs. Designs range from softer, accommodative orthoses that redistribute pressure to more supportive or corrective orthoses that influence foot position and function.
Foot orthoses may be recommended for concerns such as foot and heel pain, arthritis, diabetes and abnormal foot alignment.
Supramalleolar Orthoses (SMOs)
Supramalleolar Orthoses, or SMOs, provide additional support around the foot and ankle while still allowing movement at the ankle joint.
SMOs are commonly used for children and adults who require more stability than a foot orthosis can provide, particularly when low muscle tone, flexible flat feet or excessive pronation affects standing, balance or walking.
Each SMO is custom designed to support the individual’s alignment and functional needs and fit inside appropriate footwear.
Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs)
Ankle Foot Orthoses, or AFOs, support the foot and ankle and are one of the most common types of lower extremity orthoses we provide.
AFOs can improve stability and alignment during standing and walking, assist or control ankle movement, accommodate muscle weakness or changes in muscle tone, and help maintain range of motion.
There are many different AFO designs, ranging from flexible orthoses that assist movement to more supportive designs that provide greater control. The appropriate design depends on the individual’s needs, gait and treatment goals.
Knee Orthoses (KOs)
Knee orthoses provide support and stability for a variety of injuries, conditions and functional needs.
Depending on the individual, a knee orthosis may be used to improve stability, protect healing structures, control movement, reduce pressure within the knee or assist with alignment.
Options range from custom-fit knee braces to custom fabricated orthoses for individuals with more complex needs.
Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses (KAFOs)
A Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis (KAFO) provides support across the knee, ankle and foot when greater stability is required than an AFO alone can provide.
KAFOs may be recommended when muscle weakness, paralysis, joint instability or neurological conditions affect an individual’s ability to safely stand or walk.
Each KAFO is individually designed, with joint and locking options incorporated based on the amount of support and movement required.
Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses & RGOs
For individuals who require support extending through the hips, knees, ankles and feet, more complex orthotic systems may be recommended.
Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthoses (HKAFOs) provide support across the lower extremities and pelvis, while Reciprocating Gait Orthoses (RGOs) are specialized designs that may assist standing and reciprocal walking for individuals with significant lower extremity weakness or paralysis.
These highly individualized orthoses are designed in collaboration with the individual, family, physiotherapist and healthcare team.
Have Questions About Lower Extremity Bracing?
Whether you need a foot orthosis, AFO or more complex lower extremity bracing, our Certified Orthotists can help determine the appropriate level of support for your needs.