Pedi PHAT

The only carbon energy storing AFO.

Application:

The “Phat-Brace”, or Energy Storing AFO, produces a plantar flexion force that can replace an absent or supplement a weak calf muscle. This plantar flexion force can also stabilize or que the knee into position during standing and/or through stance phase of gait. Secondarily the orthosis will maintain dorsi-flexion during swing phase of gait.

Any pathological condition that has developed a weakness or absence of calf strength, (plantarflexion strength) would be well managed by this orthosis design. If the patient has also developed a valgus or varus ankle breakdown. Resulting in internal/external rotation of the foot in relation to the forward line of progression of the knee. This orthotic design will be limited in its effectiveness of returning close to normal functional results. If the rotation deficits are flexible and the patient can be returned to a neutral alignment, or within 10 degrees of neutral, a prefabricated orthosis may be able to produce very close to the same functional outcomes as a custom made orthosis. If the patients Valgus/Varus deficits are more involved they will require a custom made orthosis. In the more involved conditions a prefabricated orthosis can cause skin breakdown and be harmful to the patient. A orthotist with training and experience with this system should be the one to determine if a patient is a candidate for a prefabricated orthosis. The company does not guarantee or warranty the orthosis unless it is fit by a trained orthotist.

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Size Selection

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Step 1: Size Selection:

The brace height should be as high on the back of the lower leg as possible. The length of the lever arm of this part of the brace is key for the braces to function properly. In a sitting position, with the knee bent at 90 degrees. Measure the distance from the hamstrings (bottom of the thigh, just behind the knee) to the bottom of the heel (or the floor, just behind the heel). The height of the brace should be less then the height of the leg measurement. The brace is able to be cut down up to 1/4 inch, if necessary.

The length of the foot section is measured from the back of the heel to the ball of the foot (not to the end of the toes). The measurement of the patient should not be more than 1/4 inch shorter or 1/2 inch longer than the length of the brace. Padding can be added if it will help to stay within these perimeters.

If the prefabricated brace is not able to fit properly, it will not function properly for the patient.

Select the most appropriate size based on the instructions above

Step 2: Strength selection:

Evaluate the strength of each leg separately. Have the patient stand on one leg, the one you are testing. Stabilize the patient as necessary. Ask the patient to raise the heel off the ground, going up on to their toes and hold.... If the patient is not able to raise the heel off the floor or is only able to raise the heel a small bit off the floor. They would need a firm spring to match their strength deficit. If the patient is able to raise more than half way or all the way but not able to hold position. They would need a moderate strength to match their deficit.

In cases of trying to control knee positioning ( hyper-extension, crouch gait, toe walking) a firm spring is recommended. In these cases the patient may have full strength (able to go up on their toes and hold position) during testing. In these cases, the firm strength of the spring is not replacing calf strength it is resisting it. As such a stronger strength is needed.

Select the most appropriate strength based on the instructions above

Step 3: Brace selection:

In selection of a single (unilateral) right or left brace make sure the right selection is noted. In cases of both (bilateral) right and left braces it is found to be better for both braces to be of the same strength. Usually going to the firmer strength. This commonly provides a better overall symmetry in gait (walking).

Select the most appropriate brace orientation based on the instructions above

Step 4: Complete your order:

Order online

Use the button below to complete your order. You will be redirected to a third party payment portal.

Order by phone

Please call (515) 554-6132 to order your product.
Your ordering information is below:

Product name: Pedi PHAT

Brace size:

Brace strength:

Brace orientation:

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