AFO & GRAFO at Little Steps Orthotics Lab – Muscat, Oman

Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO) and Ground Reaction AFOs (GRAFO) are custom-made orthotic devices designed to support the foot, ankle, and in some cases the lower leg. Each device is created to enhance movement and provide functional support tailored to the needs of children and adults.

These orthoses aim to:

• Improve gait quality
• Increase stability and balance
• Reduce the risk of contractures and deformities
• Make standing and walking easier for the child or adult

At Little Steps Orthotics Lab, every AFO and GRAFO is designed following a detailed functional assessment, forming an essential part of our intensive rehabilitation programme for both children and adults.

🎯 When Do We Use AFOs and GRAFO?

We commonly prescribe Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO) and Ground Reaction AFOs (GRAFO) for children and adults who need improved gait stability, alignment, or protection from contractures. These orthoses are beneficial in the following conditions:

• Cerebral palsy (diplegia, hemiplegia, quadriplegia), including:

  • toe walking
  • equinus / equino-varus
  • crouch gait

• Neuromuscular weakness, such as:

  • neuropathies
  • muscular dystrophy
  • mild–moderate spinal cord injuries

• Drop foot after stroke or peripheral nerve injuries

• Post-operative management, including:

  • tendon lengthening
  • deformity correction

• Prevention of ankle contractures during sleep

  • Stretch / Night AFO

When GRAFO Is Especially Recommended

GRAFO provides additional stability and is particularly effective for:

• Crouch gait
• Children who require anterior knee support with strong ankle stability to help them stand and walk in a more upright posture

💡 Types of Orthoses We Provide

All orthotic types are available for both children and adults, and each device is carefully selected based on a detailed functional assessment to ensure the best possible outcome.

1. Solid AFO

• Provides near-complete ankle stabilization in a functional, neutral position.
• Ideal for significant spasticity, crouch gait, or severe ankle instability.

2. Dynamic AFO (DAFO)

• Thinner and more flexible to allow controlled functional movement while keeping the foot aligned.
• Suitable for children with moderate motor control who need guided movement rather than full immobilization.

3. Posterior Leaf Spring AFO (PLS AFO)

• Supports dorsiflexion and improves foot clearance during swing phase.
• A great option for neurological drop foot with moderate muscle strength.

4. GRAFO – Ground Reaction AFO

• Uses ground reaction forces to provide strong ankle stability and anterior knee support.
• Commonly prescribed for crouch gait, helping the child stand and walk with straighter knees and better weight-bearing.

5. Stretch / Night AFO

• Worn during sleep to maintain muscle length and prevent ankle contractures.
• Frequently used for cerebral palsy and severe toe-walking cases.

⭐ Why Choose AFO & GRAFO at Little Steps?

At Little Steps Orthotics Lab, every AFO and GRAFO is designed with precision, based on a detailed clinical assessment and integrated within an intensive rehabilitation programme to ensure the best outcomes for children and adults.

1. Specialized Gait and Functional Assessment

• Clinical gait analysis to understand movement patterns
• Assessment of spasticity, range of motion, and muscle strength
• Clear functional goals for each orthosis—whether improving gait, preventing contractures, or providing post-surgical support

2. The Right Orthosis for the Right Goal

• We do not use a “one brace fits all” approach
• We select the most appropriate device—Solid AFO, Dynamic AFO, PLS AFO, GRAFO, or Night AFO—based on gait pattern and functional needs

3. Local Manufacturing – Delivered Within 10 Working Days

• Casting or 3D scanning depending on the individual case
• Fabrication using materials suitable for the patient’s weight, activity level, and clinical presentation
• Fast turnaround with delivery within 10 working days only

4. Integrated With Intensive Physiotherapy

• Each orthosis is tested during intensive physiotherapy sessions
• Adjustments are made according to real functional performance, not just static fitting
• Ensures practical improvement in standing, balance, and walking

5. Warranty, Free Maintenance & Ongoing Follow-Up

• One-month full warranty on fabrication
• Free maintenance and adjustments anytime during the orthosis lifespan
• First follow-up after 2 weeks, then every 3 months or whenever needed