KAFO
Pronunciation: KAY-foh
Also written as: KAFO — Knee–Ankle–Foot Orthosis
Knee–Ankle–Foot Orthosis; a device that spans the knee, ankle, and foot to provide support and control motion across all three joints.
Full Definition
A knee–ankle–foot orthosis (KAFO) is a long-leg orthotic device extending from the thigh to the foot. It is prescribed for patients with knee instability, paralysis, or weakness requiring support at the knee in addition to the ankle and foot. KAFOs are used in conditions such as post-polio syndrome, spinal cord injury, and muscular dystrophy. Editorial documents referencing KAFOs often appear in rehabilitation plans, orthotics prescriptions, and clinical outcome reports. Editors should distinguish KAFO from AFO, which does not cross the knee.
Usage
Usage note: Expand at first use. Distinguish from AFO (no knee coverage) and HKAFO (hip-inclusive variant).
In Context
- "The surgical team recommended transitioning from a KAFO to a prosthetic solution after the patient's condition stabilised." — Orthopaedic surgical summary
- "The editor verified that 'KAFO' was introduced in full as 'knee–ankle–foot orthosis' at first mention." — Clinical report editing note