KAFO Belfast: Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis & Conventional Calipers Northern Ireland
Leading KAFO specialist in Belfast providing expert knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) bracing and conventional calipers throughout Northern Ireland. Serving Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Newtownabbey, Newry, Derry and all NI areas. Custom KAFO, carbon fibre and traditional caliper solutions for polio, post-polio syndrome, neuromuscular disorders, cerebral palsy and post-surgical rehabilitation. HCPC registered orthotist Jonathan Bull with 20+ years experience. Clinic based in East Belfast with free parking.
What is a KAFO (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis)?
A KAFO, also known as calipers or leg braces, is a custom or conventional orthosis that supports the knee, ankle and foot to enable standing and walking. KAFOs are used when significant lower limb weakness affects knee stability and ankle control.
KAFOs are commonly prescribed for conditions including polio and post-polio syndrome, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy with lower limb involvement, neuromuscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy, post-surgical rehabilitation after major lower limb surgery, and severe lower limb weakness requiring full-length bracing.
How Does a KAFO Help?
- Provides knee stability during standing and walking
- Controls ankle position and prevents drop foot
- Enables independent mobility when leg muscles are weak
- Reduces fall risk and improves safety
- Supports rehabilitation after injury or surgery
- Maintains joint alignment and prevents deformity
Who Needs a KAFO in Belfast?
You may benefit from a KAFO if you experience:
- Polio or post-polio syndrome affecting lower limbs
- Knee buckling or giving way during walking
- Significant lower limb weakness affecting standing
- Cerebral palsy with knee and ankle involvement
- Spinal cord injury with incomplete leg function
- Neuromuscular disorder causing progressive weakness
- Post-surgical rehabilitation needs after major surgery
- Multiple joint involvement requiring full-leg support
- Previous use of calipers requiring replacement
Types of KAFO Braces We Provide
Conventional Calipers (Traditional KAFOs)
Traditional metal calipers with leather or fabric support. These time-tested orthoses provide reliable knee and ankle support for long-term KAFO users. Conventional calipers are particularly suited to patients familiar with traditional caliper design and those requiring very robust, long-lasting bracing.
- Metal uprights for maximum durability
- Locked or unlocked knee joints
- Traditional leather or modern fabric support
- Suitable for all ages and activity levels
- Price on application - contact for quote
Custom Plastic KAFOs
Modern custom-moulded KAFOs fabricated from thermoplastic materials. Available in locked (solid knee) and hinged (articulated knee) designs. Ideal for patients requiring contemporary orthotic design with good cosmetic appearance.
- Custom fit to your exact leg shape
- Locked or hinged knee options
- Lightweight compared to conventional calipers
- Suitable for paediatric and adult patients
- Price on application - contact for quote
Carbon Fibre KAFOs
Premium custom KAFOs fabricated from carbon fibre for maximum strength with minimal weight. Ideal for active individuals and those requiring high-performance bracing without the bulk of traditional designs.
- Exceptionally lightweight and strong
- Energy return for improved gait efficiency
- Custom-made to your specifications
- Suitable for active lifestyles
- Price on application - contact for quote
Conditions We Treat with KAFO Bracing
Polio & Post-Polio Syndrome
KAFO bracing for polio survivors experiencing new or progressive weakness. Conventional calipers or modern KAFO designs to maintain mobility and independence.
Cerebral Palsy
Paediatric and adult KAFOs for cerebral palsy affecting knee and ankle control, improving gait and preventing contractures.
Spinal Cord Injury
KAFO support for incomplete spinal cord injuries affecting lower limb function and enabling standing and walking.
Neuromuscular Disorders
KAFO bracing for muscular dystrophy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and other progressive neuromuscular conditions.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
KAFO support following major lower limb surgery, fractures, or surgical procedures requiring knee stabilisation.
Complex Lower Limb Weakness
KAFO solutions for multi-joint involvement requiring comprehensive lower limb support.
Frequently Asked Questions About KAFOs
What is a KAFO and what is it used for?
A KAFO (Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis), also known as calipers or leg braces, is a brace that supports the knee, ankle and foot. KAFOs are used to treat conditions causing significant lower limb weakness including polio, post-polio syndrome, spinal cord injury, neuromuscular disorders, cerebral palsy, and post-surgical rehabilitation. They provide stability for standing and walking when knee and ankle control is compromised.
What types of KAFOs are available in Belfast?
We provide conventional calipers (traditional metal KAFOs), custom plastic KAFOs, carbon fibre KAFOs for lightweight strength, locked knee KAFOs for maximum stability, and unlocked/hinged KAFOs allowing knee movement. Each type offers different levels of support depending on your specific needs and mobility goals.
Where can I get a KAFO fitted in Belfast?
Bull Orthotics provides specialist KAFO assessment and fitting at our East Belfast clinic on Holywood Road (BT4 1NT). We are Belfast's leading private KAFO specialist, offering custom KAFO design and conventional calipers. Our clinic has free parking and is easily accessible from all areas of Belfast and Northern Ireland. No GP referral is needed - you can book directly online or call 07727061400.
How long does it take to get a KAFO?
Custom KAFOs typically take 3-4 weeks from initial assessment to fitting, depending on complexity and materials used. Conventional calipers may take 4-6 weeks due to the precision metalwork required. We work closely with specialist fabricators to ensure optimal fit and function for your specific condition.
What is the difference between a KAFO and an AFO?
An AFO (ankle-foot orthosis) supports only the ankle and foot, while a KAFO extends up to support the knee as well. KAFOs are used when both knee and ankle weakness are present, whereas AFOs are sufficient when only ankle/foot control is needed. KAFOs provide more comprehensive lower limb support for conditions causing significant leg weakness.
Can I wear a KAFO with regular shoes?
KAFOs typically require sturdy, lace-up shoes one size larger than normal to accommodate the ankle portion of the orthosis. Footwear must have good heel counter support and adequate depth. We assess your footwear needs during consultation and can provide guidance on suitable shoe types for KAFO use.
Ready to Improve Your Mobility with a KAFO?
Book your KAFO assessment today in Belfast. We'll assess your lower limb function, discuss treatment options, and recommend the most appropriate KAFO solution for your needs in Northern Ireland.
Call: 07727061400
Email: info@bullorthotics.com