What is a contraindication for the use of a Carbon AFO?

The use of a Carbon AFO (ankle-foot orthosis) is contraindicated in cases of moderate to severe hypertonicity because this condition often leads to significant muscle stiffness and spasticity. In such scenarios, the dynamic characteristics of a Carbon AFO may not provide the necessary support and range of motion, and the stiffness of the spastic muscles can counteract the intended benefits of the brace. The AFO may not accommodate the abnormal muscle tone effectively, potentially leading to pain or discomfort, and could result in an inability to properly engage with normal gait mechanics.

In contrast, conditions like dorsiflexion weakness, flaccid paralysis, and mild cerebral palsy (CP) may still allow for effective function with the use of a Carbon AFO, as these scenarios typically involve less muscle tone variability and can potentially benefit from the energy return properties of the carbon fiber material. These conditions allow the AFO to help facilitate ambulation without the added complications posed by the resistance of spasticity seen in moderate to severe hypertonicity.