What is a long leg brace?
A long leg brace (KAFO, knee-ankle-foot orthosis) is a type of orthosis considered for people with insufficient knee control or whose lower limb needs support at more than one joint. Unlike the short leg brace, which covers only the ankle and foot, it starts at the thigh and extends across the knee and ankle joints to the foot; it aims to support stability while standing and walking.
How does it provide support?
The device aims to support walking by helping body weight to be distributed more evenly. In people whose knee control is insufficient, keeping the knee in a straight position can make standing and stepping easier.
The main components that may be included in its design are:
- Joint mechanisms that keep the knee in an extended position
- Mechanisms that support the ankle in a neutral or, when necessary, mobile position
- Support elements for the knee and ankle joints
- Insoles and suspension systems aimed at increasing comfort
Control of the knee joint can be provided by mechanical locking systems, and can also be supported by electronically controlled joints or microprocessor-controlled knee systems. Systems that also cross the hip joint are not considered KAFOs but are placed in a separate anatomical class as HKAFOs (hip-knee-ankle-foot orthoses).
Individual assessment
The selection and fit of a long leg brace vary according to the person's health, mobility and the cause of their walking difficulty. For this reason, assessment and fitting are carried out in line with the specialist physician's prescription and medical report. The appropriate device is determined by considering the orthopedic assessment and the physiotherapy process together.
This content is for informational purposes only; you should consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
