AFO vs KFO
Original Post: What do AFO and KAFO mean?
Dr. Bruno’s Response: There are 2 basic forms of ankle-foot orthoses
AFO (left) and KAFO (right)
(AFOs) - Ankle-Foot Orthosis is the double-upright construction attached to the shoe
(MAFO) is the molded AFO. Depending on the pathology, the AFO can be fixed or articulated to permit ankle range of motion.
(KAFO) is an AFO with metal uprights, a mechanical knee joint and two thigh bands. KAFOs provide stability to the knee and foot when needed during the stance phase of ambulation and knee hyperextension control from midstance to the terminal stance phase in the gait cycle.
KAFO: Knee, ankle, foot orthotics
AFO: Ankle foot orthotic