AFO'S

[Barry52]

Can anyone explain the benefits of using these,or pitfalls and as time progresses do most cmt sufferers use them as matter of course.Second question I find going up steps safer than coming down steps would I be correct in stating this or is it an individual thing.

Many Thanks

[Amanita]

Hi, Barry,

The more I find out about AFOs and other aids for walking, the more complex I find the whole subject becomes, and the more I realise patients' individual needs are very varied. Meanwhile orthotists themselves are a diverse bunch of people, who have access to a range of resources, from the meagre to the superb.

Some CMT patients' needs are met by a simple device to help raise the front of the foot and prevent the kind of falls caused by catching ones toes on the floor. Then there is a vast range (in materials and complexity) of devices and AFOs, each of which appears to have advantages and drawbacks.

The devices I have been given by the NHS (meagre end of the spectrum) and have been using for some time are an elastic-and-Velcro item (Sporlastic Neurodyn) for my stronger ankle, and a slightly more rigid item (Ossur Form Fit) for my weaker one. The Sporlastic needs frequent repairs, and is quite difficult to pull undone if your hands are weak, while the Ossur has long laces and straps which are time consuming to put on, and very prone to getting tangled up. Both correct the foot-drop adequately, and the Ossur helps more to avoid the ankle capsizing. Both allow some plantarflexion, which is helpful for driving. Neither prevents me walking with the weight on the outer edges of my feet, nor does anything to help with either the balance, or the feeling that all my energy is being absorbed by the ground, rather than helping to propel me forward.

Regarding Question no 2, I have certainly always found going downstairs (or down sloping footpaths ) a lot more intimidating than going up. Perhaps it's the combination of crummy balance, and the sight of a yawning void in front of you. For many years I haven't been able to tackle going down bannister-less outdoor steps. Now I need bannisters on both sides even for going up the stairs at home.

[Barry52]

Very Interesting,Thankyou

[gunner in reply to Barry52]

Hi barry52 I just wish to say that I am currently having afos made up but its taking soo long not that I want to wear them but I suppose they are necessary. but I have had quite a few fittings yet when I am told I will be able to leave with them next time, it turns out they are all wrong and need correcting or re-thinking. so when they are finally finished my feet will probably have changed as I have been waiting for nearly a year now I think! but I now think they will not be of much help as fitting seems extremely difficult. I think they should ask you more about what you feel is needed as they don't ask you about the difficulties your feet and legs are causing you. also I have started to be looked at by someone and just when you think you are getting somewhere they leave. great!