Patient Spotlight: Kylahnee’s Journey
At Westcoast Brace and Limb, we are honored to support incredible young patients like Kylahnee, who has been part of our family since she was just one year old. Born with Noonan syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting roughly 1 in 1,000 births in the United States, Kylahnee has faced unique challenges including potential spinal curvatures, heart concerns, and differences in growth.
Despite her diagnosis, Kylahnee’s bright personality and determination shine through every day. Now a lively 6-year-old, she approaches life with energy, sass, and courage—a reminder that every child’s potential is unique and inspiring.
Understanding Noonan Syndrome and Pediatric Orthopedic Needs
Noonan syndrome is a genetic condition that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the heart, growth, and skeletal development. Children with Noonan syndrome may experience spinal curvatures, short stature, or joint and tendon challenges, making specialized pediatric orthotics and prosthetics critical to their mobility and quality of life.
Early evaluation and ongoing support from skilled orthotists and pediatric orthopedic teams are essential to helping children like Kylahnee reach their full potential.
Surgical Intervention and the Need for New AFOs
This year, Kylahnee required new ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) following a surgical procedure to lengthen her Achilles tendons, performed by Dr. Siambanes of Baycare Medical Pediatric Orthopedics. The surgery aimed to improve her walking and mobility while maintaining comfort and function.
Dr. Siambanes worked closely with our orthotist, Emily Crawford, to determine the best bracing solution, one that would provide stability without restricting natural movement.
Custom AFO Solutions: Balancing Stability and Flexibility
Kylahnee’s custom AFOs were designed with both function and comfort in mind. Her new braces include a flexible polyethylene inner boot, providing maximum contact and control of her foot, along with a posterior leaf spring (PLS) design that ensures proper positioning without overbracing.
This approach allows for flexible, lightweight pediatric orthotics that support mobility, encourage natural gait patterns, and avoid the bulkiness of traditional hinged braces.
Fabrication and Fit: Bringing the Design to Life
The final braces were meticulously crafted by our technicians at WCBL’s central fabrication lab, ensuring a perfect fit and high-quality finish. One month after receiving her custom AFOs, Kylahnee is walking confidently, playing, and enjoying the activities she loves.
The combination of precise orthotic design, collaborative care, and skilled fabrication demonstrates the importance of custom pediatric bracing solutions for children with complex orthopedic needs.
Thriving with Custom Bracing
Kylahnee’s journey is a testament to the difference custom pediatric orthotics and prosthetics can make in a child’s life. Her new braces support her independence, mobility, and confidence allowing her to be a typical, active 6-year-old while managing the challenges of her condition.
At Westcoast Brace and Limb, we take pride in creating orthotic solutions that enhance quality of life and empower our youngest patients to thrive.
Why Custom Pediatric Bracing Matters
Every child deserves the opportunity to move, grow, and live confidently. Custom pediatric orthotics like Kylahnee’s AFOs provide the stability, support, and flexibility necessary to encourage healthy mobility and independence.
If your child could benefit from custom bracing or orthotic solutions, our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way, helping your family experience the same care, support, and life-changing results as Kylahnee.
