Im pro ving AFO (ankle-footorthosis) Hea lth

Q“I’v e reso lv ed to be healthier in 2 0 18 . W hat can I do to improve my AFO ( ankle-footorthosis) health? ”

A.The smartest and healthiest step you can take with your anklefoot orthosis is easy, simple, and free! Just call to schedule a visit to your O&P provider for an annual check-up. This is an excellent resolution for wearers of not only orthotic but prosthetic devices, too—and it’s a good way to start the new year off ‘well.’

Braces and prosthetic limbs need periodic lubrication and adjustment to prevent premature wear. An annual inspection by a professional can confirm that everything is upto-date and working properly; it also helps to identify potential problems long before they develop into inconvenient and expensive disasters. Semi-annual check-ups are even better—they double your chances of detecting and correcting minor difficulties before they become major.

Most people are unaware that there is no charge for such preventive service. Regular assessments and evaluations are an integral part of the follow-up care you can expect from the practitioner who provides your brace; the same is true for prosthesis wearers.

Unless extensive and major repairs are required, such an assessment visit to your orthotist or prosthetist is cost-free—and leaves you with a greater sense of security and confidence, knowing your device or brace is problem-free and in great shape.

Starting your year off right by scheduling such a visit could be one of the smartest and most costeffective resolutions you make!

Snell Laboratory is always happy to answer your questions and to work with your doctor to provide and maintain the most effective orthotic or prosthetic solution for your needs. Don’t hesitate to call us for a free annual evaluation as we continue our tradition of 100+ years of quality care in Snell Prosthetic & Orthotic Laboratory