Carbon Fibre AFOs at Orthotics Plus
Carbon fibre is a lightweight and strong material that can be used as the primary material in an Ankle-Foot Orthoses.
Carbon Fibre AFOs can be pre-made or custom-made products. It is possible to create most types of AFOs from carbon fibre (solid type, jointed type, GRAFOs, PDEs & leaf spring).
It is a premium material known for its stiffness, high strength-to-weight ratio, and durability.
Orthotics Plus provides AFO assessments and fitting at our Melbourne Clinics.
Customising a Carbon Fibre AFO
Carbon fibre AFOs can be customised in these ways:
- Strut placement – Posterior, medial, or lateral struts with varying width, thickness, location, and stiffness based on required force. These are non-adjustable.
- Trim lines – Contoured to the patient’s shape to apply the appropriate force and keep the limb neutral.
- Carbon fibre material – Using the ideal weave count and thickness for different stiffness levels. More support requires a tighter weave and potentially more layers.
Carbon Fibre Vs Plastic
Both plastic and carbon fibre AFOs offer similar functionality. Key differences:
- Carbon fibre provides more energy return
- Carbon fibre is stiffer and stronger
- Carbon fibre AFOs are lower profile
- Carbon fibre is slightly lighter
- Carbon fibre lasts longer
A plastic AFO can be a cost-effective trial before upgrading to a pricier carbon model.
Patients at risk of pressure areas may prefer plastic, as it is easier to remould compared to carbon, which is less adjustable.
Assessment Process
At Orthotics Plus, we offer both pre-made and custom carbon fibre AFOs, tailored to your preferences, activity levels, goals, skin integrity, foot posture, and biomechanics.
We specialise in prescribing AFOs for those with physical or neurological disabilities causing foot drop. During your assessment, you can trial various Orthoses. If an AFO is suitable, we’ll take a cast of your leg and have it ready within two weeks.
We provide a warranty and ongoing support, ensuring we’re here for you now and in the future.
Funding AFOs at Orthotics Plus
Orthotics Plus is registered with various funding schemes, including the NDIS, private health insurers, homecare packages, TAC, WorkCover, DVA and more.
Please contact our administration to confirm your funding scheme and how we can accommodate your financial preferences.
We are able to provide reports to your funding scheme (i.e. NDIS Assistive Technology request) to ensure a carbon-fibre AFO will lead to functional outcomes.
Our focus is that you have a great experience of receiving the most appropriate prescription that helps you live your best life.
Why Choose Orthotics Plus?
Orthotics Plus was established in 2012, we are proud to have served the Melbourne community for this time.
- We are caring and compassionate
- Our Orthotists are registered with AOPA
- Our senior Orthotists have a minimum of 10 years of clinical knowledge and experience
- We actively listen to your preferences
To start your journey with Orthotics Plus, please use our clinic locations or referrals pages.
