Prescription practices for rigid ankle-foot orthoses among UK orthotists

Objective:
The purpose of this study was to investigate rigid ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) prescription practices for adult men among UK orthotists.

Design:
A cross-sectional study using a survey was distributed online to UK orthotists by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists to its members and through social media and orthotic networks. The survey was completed between November 1, 2020, and November 29, 2020.

Main outcome measures:
Descriptive statistics of survey results include information related to the material used, the thickness of the material, positive cast rectification, AFO reinforcement, footplate design, padding, strapping system, and height of AFO.

Results:
One hundred participants completed the survey, which equates to a response rate of 30.5% of the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists members targeted. A clear consensus emerged on the design of a bespoke rigid AFO for the hypothetical patient in this study, which is detailed as follows: 1) 4.5 mm copolymer polypropylene, 2) no additional reinforcement, 3) full-length footplate with mediolateral trimlines terminating behind the metatarsal heads, 4) 3-point correction with parallel sides, 5) padded VELCRO straps with D-rings at the calf and heel, 6) no forefoot or other additional strapping, 7) 3-mm PORON (international Ltd) padding at the malleoli, and 8) AFO height that finishes 2 cm below the fibular head.

Conclusions:
This study has highlighted a consensus on AFO prescription/design among UK orthotists surveyed, based on the hypothetical patient described in this study.