Lower Extremity Orthotics

Lower Extremity Orthotics

Lower extremity orthotics are custom medical devices designed to support alignment, improve stability, and enhance functional mobility. At Great Lakes Orthopedic Labs, we specialize in custom ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) and supramalleolar orthoses (SMOs) for pediatric and adult patients with a wide range of orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions.

Every orthotic begins with a detailed clinical evaluation and hands-on assessment performed by an experienced practitioner to ensure each device is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs)

Ankle foot orthotics are designed to control motion at the ankle and foot while influencing alignment throughout the lower extremity. AFOs may be used to address gait deviations, muscle weakness, tone abnormalities, joint instability, or structural deformity.

Depending on the diagnosis and functional goals, AFOs may be designed to provide support during walking, improve toe clearance, enhance stability, or assist with controlled motion during stance and swing phases of gait.

Supramalleolar Orthoses (SMOs)

SMOs are designed to provide foot and ankle alignment while allowing greater freedom of ankle motion than an AFO. They are commonly prescribed for children with excessive pronation, hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, or mild instability affecting balance and gait development.

We proudly provide Surestep® SMOs, which are specifically designed to support proper foot alignment while encouraging natural movement and functional development. Surestep® SMOs are commonly used in early walkers and children requiring dynamic foot control.

Comprehensive Evaluation and Gait Analysis

Orthotic success begins with a thorough evaluation. Our practitioner performs a detailed assessment that includes posture, joint range of motion, muscle tone, strength, foot structure, and functional movement.

A focused gait analysis is performed to observe walking patterns, alignment, balance, and compensatory strategies. This clinical information directly guides orthotic design decisions.

When appropriate, we collaborate with physical therapists, physicians, and caregivers to ensure the orthotic supports the overall treatment plan and functional goals.

Custom Casting and Digital Scanning

To ensure optimal fit and function, custom orthotics are fabricated using either traditional casting techniques or modern digital scanning, depending on patient needs and clinical indication.

All shape capture is performed directly by the practitioner, allowing precise control of alignment, positioning, and correction during casting or scanning.

This hands-on approach allows the orthotic to reflect the patient’s true anatomy and clinical presentation, rather than relying on prefabricated or generic sizing.

In-House Fabrication and Custom Modification

We emphasize in-house fabrication and direct modification whenever possible. This approach allows for quality control, timely adjustments, and customization throughout the course of treatment.

In-house fabrication supports faster turnaround times and allows for precise modifications as the patient grows or functional needs change.

Orthoses are adjusted and refined during follow-up visits to ensure comfort, proper alignment, and continued effectiveness.

Conditions Commonly Treated

• Hypotonia and ligamentous laxity
• Toe walking
• Pes planovalgus (flatfoot)
• Neurological conditions affecting gait
• Developmental delays affecting balance and mobility
• Post-operative or post-injury support

What to Expect at Great Lakes Orthopedic Labs

• Evaluation: detailed clinical assessment and gait observation
• Shape capture: practitioner-directed casting or digital scanning
• Custom fabrication: device design tailored to diagnosis and goals
• Fitting: alignment, comfort, and function verified
• Follow-up care: ongoing adjustments as the patient grows or progresses

Schedule a Lower Extremity Orthotic Evaluation

If your child or patient has been referred for an ankle foot orthotic or SMO, our team is here to help. We focus on individualized care, clinical precision, and functional outcomes.

Great Lakes Orthopedic Labs
1031 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203
Phone: 716-893-4116