What is a Swing and Stance Controlled KAFO?
A Swing and Stance Controlled (SSCO) KAFO is a sophisticated device designed to support individuals with lower limb weaknesses or instabilities, particularly during walking.
At Orthotics Plus, we offer a range of Swing and Stance Controlled KAFOs tailored to your specific needs.
Our caring team ensures a precise fit and ongoing support to maximise your mobility and comfort.
Types of Swing and Stance Controlled KAFO Available
- Ottobock C Brace
- Fior & Gentz HiTronic
Terminology
The term “swing and stance control” refers to the phases of gait the KAFO influences.
The “stance control” aspect provides stability to the knee and leg during the stance phase, where the weight is on the foot. This prevents the knee from buckling or the leg from collapsing, particularly useful for those with quadriceps weakness or knee stability issues.
On the other hand, the “swing control” offers variable resistance or assistance during the swing phase, either assisting in achieving full knee extension or bending slightly to absorb shock, allowing for a more natural gait and safer movement in activities like sitting or descending stairs.
Patient Profile
This type of KAFO is typically prescribed for individuals with significant lower limb weakness, often involving both legs, including weakness in dorsiflexors, plantarflexors, quadriceps, and hamstrings.
As alluded to, the swing and stance controlled variant dynamically adjusts to the different phases of gait. It is especially beneficial for those with suboptimal strength below the knee but those with some hip function. The hip function allows the patient to generate swing and swing the leg through.
Patients with minimal hip function but good core and torso control can also often ‘drive’ a stance control system.
For individuals with strong hip and glute muscles but isolated knee weakness, an alternative KAFO design may be considered as the hips can often compensate for inadequate knee strength, however this can be at the detriment to the posterior aspect of the knee which then needs to be protected by a KAFO that prevents hyperextension.
When the weakness is more widespread, the patient wants to walk on uneven terrain or is collapsing at the knee, the stance control feature becomes crucial.
The swing control feature is particularly beneficial for those who desire greater functionality and a more natural walking experience or those who need help generating knee extension.
This type of KAFO does come with a higher cost compared to other KAFOs however the functional gains are often life changing.
Are There Manufacturers of Swing and Stance Controlled KAFOs?
Yes, several manufacturers produce swing and stance controlled KAFOs, such as well-known products like the Ottobock C-Brace, the Fior & Gentz’s range (including the Neuro HiTronic models), and Blatchford’s newly released model the Tectus.
These devices are custom-made to fit the patient, with the shells and components tailored to individual needs. Once fitted, these KAFOs can be finely tuned via computer or app to optimise gait, including settings for when the brace locks or unlocks, and the level of resistance during the swing phase.
Importantly, Orthotics Plus does not bias a particular manufacturer, rather, it is our role to understand what is available – and prescribe the best solutions for our patients.
Challenges in Using a Swing and Stance Controlled KAFO
One of the primary challenges in using a Swing and Stance Controlled KAFO is achieving a perfect fit.
The orthosis must fit snugly to ensure it functions effectively, without causing discomfort or pressure issues. Learning to use the device can also require practice, as it may involve a different gait pattern compared to normal walking.
Early stages of practice are typically conducted with our Orthotist, followed by ongoing training with a physiotherapist.
Orthotics Plus has modern facilities with features such as parallel bars, which provide an ideal environment for trials and initial rehabilitation, as pictured below.
Patients who receive a stance control KAFO generally notice significant improvement in their quality of life, mobility, independence, pain and often find they gain strength and muscle due to their increased mobility.
Customisation and Adjustments
The level of customisation available with these KAFOs is extensive.
While the base unit is manufactured by suppliers, the contact surfaces and overall fit are entirely custom.
Adjustments can be made to the brace’s alignment, the point at which it locks or unlocks, and the resistance during swing, all controlled via a computer or app.
This level of customisation ensures that the orthosis meets the specific needs of the patient, improving comfort, satisfaction and functionality.
For a SSCO KAFO to function effectively the fit of the KAFO must be very intimate.
While they require careful fitting and practice to use effectively, the benefits in terms of safety, mobility, and quality of life can be substantial.
Contact Orthotics Plus
Discover how a Swing and Stance Controlled KAFO can enhance your mobility and quality of life.
- These can be funded through NDIS plans
- We give our patients choice and control
- We are an NDIS registered provider
Contact Orthotics Plus today to schedule a consultation with our specialists and explore the best solutions tailored just for you.
