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A knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) is an externally applied orthopedic appliance which
encompasses the foot, ankle, lower leg, knee and thigh. The KAFO provides the features of an AFO but in addition provides protection, correction and support of the knee joint.
Some KAFOs are still made from metal and leather but most designs now use thermoplastics
with metal only being used for the hinges at the knee. The lightweight plastic designs offer more support, are more cosmetically acceptable and can fit into various shoe designs.
While the metal braces are more adjustable, they tend to be heavier, bulkier and require special attachments for fitting to shoes. A heavier shoe is also generally required when
using the metal brace. Very lightweight carbon fibre designs also exist but are not economical, lack adjustability and are rarely more suitable than thermoplastic designs.
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