Course Description

Traditionally, solid ankle foot orthoses have a full flat foot plate, non-accommodating to the arches of the foot, inflexible at the toes and a long shaft up the leg preventing anterior & posterior translation of the tibia (fibula) required for forward progression of the body around the ankle. The dynamic ankle foot orthosis (DAFO) is a concept developed by Nancy Hylton to decrease "spasticity"; and to facilitate postural and balance reactions in the upright position. What makes the AFO dynamic is that it accommodates and allows for graded stable movement that occurs in hind-, mid-, and forefoot from heel strike to toe off.

This introductory course will explain the components of the DAFO and provide techniques for patient assessment as an indicator to use the DAFO. Therapeutic interventions based on neuro-developmental treatment; motor control; and motor learning will be demonstrated to improve hemiplegic gait as well as to prepare the foot for the DAFO in the adult neurologic population.

Course Level (As defined by the APTA): Intermediate – Assumes that participants have a general familiarity with topic (ankle foot orthoses).  The focus is on increased understanding and application of information (dynamic ankle foot orthoses).

Participants

Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants; Occupational Therapists & Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants

Course Objectives

After completing this course, the participant will be able to:

1. Definne and explain the purpose of the DAFO.
2. Describe the components of the DAFO.
3. Articulate research supporting the use of DAFOs to improve hemiplegic gait.
4. Demonstrate assessment techniques for the hemiplegic foot.
5. Observe orthotist casting for DAFO (optional).
6. Observe or fabricate a DAFO.
7. Develop the appropriate physical therapy terminology to effectively communicate with the orthotist suitable bracing interventions for the hemiplegic foot and leg.

Continuing Education Units

A certificate of attendance will be issued denoting eight (8) contact (clock) hours or .8 CEUs of continuing education. The contact hours or CEUs will vary in each state according to licensure boards, state associations, or sponsoring entities.

For this Course, PLEASE:

1. Be prepared to have your knee, leg and foot examined
2. Review leg foot anatomy and kinesiology
3. Bring cast scissors
4. Bring 1 square foot (12 x 12 inch) plexiglass
5. Bring 5x7 standing mirror
6. Bring an exacto knife