Which feature is characteristic of a conventional AFO?

Which feature is characteristic of a conventional AFO?

• A. Double metal uprights attached to a calf band, hinged ankle joint allowing PF/DF
• B. Made of molded plastic
• C. Lighter, more cosmetic
• D. Contraindicated for patients with changing leg volume

Answer: (A)

The feature being tested is how a traditional, or conventional, AFO is built. A conventional AFO uses two metal uprights that run along the sides of the leg and foot, connected to a calf band around the upper shin, with a hinged ankle joint that allows motion in the ankle—plantarflexion and dorsiflexion. This metal-frame design provides sturdy, adjustable control in the sagittal plane and is the defining hallmark of conventional AFOs. In contrast, molded plastic AFOs are built as a single plastic shell, which makes them lighter and more cosmetic, and they can accommodate changes in leg volume more readily with relining or remolding.

The feature being tested is how a traditional, or conventional, AFO is built. A conventional AFO uses two metal uprights that run along the sides of the leg and foot, connected to a calf band around the upper shin, with a hinged ankle joint that allows motion in the ankle—plantarflexion and dorsiflexion. This metal-frame design provides sturdy, adjustable control in the sagittal plane and is the defining hallmark of conventional AFOs. In contrast, molded plastic AFOs are built as a single plastic shell, which makes them lighter and more cosmetic, and they can accommodate changes in leg volume more readily with relining or remolding.