Dorsiflexion Stretching
Initial Evaluation Appointment - What to Expect at Fitting (Nighttime Bracing)
Your physician has prescribed a Dorsiflexion Stretching Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO). This may be used to support muscles, immobilize joints, or correct the position of your foot and ankle. The AFO will be made of thermoplastic and foam, and have straps to help hold the foot in place and place a stretch on the muscles.
This style of brace helps with increasing the range of motion at your ankle where the foot and shin appear closer together (dorsiflexion). The AFO helps with increasing this range of motion by placing a stretch on your calf muscle.
The goal for nighttime bracing is to make sure your child sleeps the entire night in their braces. The growth hormone is the most active while your child is in their deepest sleep. Do not go after a stretched position that your child can not tolerate. You will have more success with a soft stretch over a prolonged period of time.
The following guidelines will help you prepare for the use of your orthosis
What to bring to your fitting appointment
What to expect at the fitting appointment:
More in-depth wear and care instructions will be provided at the delivery appointment.
Our in-house facility ensures personalized care, adjustments, and long-term support for the best possible patient outcomes.
Please Note: The Orthotics and Prosthetics services at the Paley Institute are available exclusively to patients currently under the care of a Paley Institute physician. We are unable to accommodate external referrals or walk-in appointments at this time.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with our Orthotics & Prosthetics department, please contact us directly at (561) 844-5255 Ext 240.
