Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO) Solutions
Supporting Confidence, Control and Independence
At LEWis BRAND Orthotics, we understand that mobility is about more than movement — it’s about confidence, safety, and freedom in everyday life. For some people, especially those living with significant weakness, instability, or neurological conditions, a Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (KAFO) can provide the support needed to walk more comfortably and securely.
Our approach is always personal. We take time to understand your lifestyle, your goals, and your daily challenges so that together we can design the most effective and practical KAFO solution for your needs.
When a KAFO May Be Recommended
A KAFO is typically prescribed when support is needed across the knee, ankle, and foot to stabilise the leg and assist movement. These devices are commonly used for people living with or recovering from:
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Polio – where long-term muscle weakness or paralysis has led to joint instability and fatigue
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – to support weakened muscles and improve walking confidence
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Cerebral Palsy (CP) – to help manage muscle tone, alignment, and knee control
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Severe Knee Hyperextension – when the knee collapses backward during walking, causing discomfort or instability
- Patella Tendon Rupture- injury to the tendon which connects the knee cap to the tibia. Complete rupture may result in a lack of extension (straightening) of the knee
Each design is tailored to address your specific movement pattern, muscle strength, and daily activity needs.
Types of KAFO Design
Conventional KAFOs
The traditional design features metal side bars and calipers that connect into a specially adapted shoe. These are robust, durable, and particularly effective for clients who need strong, long-term support. They often connect to the body with leather straps.
While these devices are bulkier, they provide excellent stability and are often preferred for users who have worn similar braces before or require firm structural control. This type of brace usually has a knee which locks into extension (straight and rigid) during all weight bearing and walking activities.
Cosmetic KAFOs
More modern KAFO designs use thermoplastic shells with metal side bars that sit inside the shoe rather than attaching externally.
These braces offer:
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A lighter, more discreet appearance
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Easier integration into everyday footwear
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Custom shaping for improved comfort and alignment
They’re ideal for clients who want a balance of support, comfort, and cosmetic appeal.
Stance Control KAFOs – Dynamic Support for Natural Walking
For clients aiming to regain a more fluid and energy-efficient gait, a stance control KAFO can be life-changing.
These advanced braces feature a mechanical knee joint that automatically locks and unlocks during different stages of walking:
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The joint locks or adds extra stability and resistance in stance phase (when your foot is on the ground) to provide stability and prevent the knee from collapsing.
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It then releases in swing phase (when your foot moves forward), allowing the knee to bend freely for a more natural, free-flowing stride.
This intelligent mechanism helps reduce fatigue, promote smoother movement, and restore confidence when walking on varied terrain.
Most stance control systems are built into custom carbon fibre KAFOs, combining strength with a lightweight, modern design.
Carbon Fibre KAFOs – Strength and Precision Engineering
Carbon fibre is an advanced material often used for high-performance orthoses. Its benefits include:
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Exceptional strength and stability
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Lightweight design, reducing fatigue during walking
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Excellent energy return, improving efficiency and comfort
However, it’s important to note that carbon fibre braces cannot be easily modified once made. This means that, while performance is excellent, there’s less flexibility for adjustments if your needs or leg shape change — and in some cases, minor rubbing may occur as a result.
That’s why we take precise measurements and spend time fine-tuning the design process to get it right first time.
KAFO Assessment Package – £595
Your comfort and confidence are at the heart of everything we do. Our comprehensive KAFO package includes full support from first assessment to follow-up review.
Your package includes:
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90-minute in-depth assessment – full evaluation of muscle strength, joint control, walking pattern, treatment goals, daily challenges and alignment concerns
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60-minute fitting appointment – ensuring comfort, accuracy, precision of trim lines and alignment
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60-minute delivery appointment – gait training and fine-tuning for real-world function
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Detailed written report – outlining your findings, product recommendation, and next steps
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6-week telephone review – checking progress and comfort
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Free face-to-face review – if any issues arise, we’ll invite you back to resolve them at no cost
All KAFO products are custom manufactured and priced individually depending on the material and joints recommended for your needs. Prices can range between £1000-£15000 to give a rough guide.
Our Commitment to You
We believe in long-term relationships built on trust, transparency and genuine care. As your needs change over time, we’ll be here to reassess, refine and adapt your orthotic support.
Our goal is always to help you move more freely, comfortably, and confidently — whatever your starting point.
Book Your KAFO Assessment – £595
If you or someone you care for could benefit from a KAFO, we’re here to help.
Take the first step toward greater stability, confidence, and independence today.