Optimizing Mobility with Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs

Advancing Ankle-Foot Orthotics with Flexible Pre-Preg Materials PIctures of Ankle foot orthosis, showing multiple views and a hand bending the edges to show flexibility

Material selection in ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs) plays a crucial role in patient comfort, functionality, and adaptability. Historically, orthotic materials have evolved from wood and thermoplastics to carbon fiber. While carbon fiber offers a lightweight solution, it often lacks adjustability post-fabrication. However, advancements in material science have led to the development of Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs, which combine lightweight properties with enhanced flexibility and customization. Learn more about carbon fiber materials and their impact on orthotic design.

The Benefits of Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs

Westcoast Brace & Limb and WCBLFab offer HighTide and LowTide Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs, designed to meet diverse patient needs while allowing practitioners greater modification capabilities. These AFOs provide significant advantages over traditional thermoplastics and wet lamination carbon fiber designs:

  • Lightweight Design
    Pre-preg materials are lighter than wet lamination, even with thicker lay-ups, reducing patient fatigue and increasing wearability.
  • Customizable Rigidity and Flexibility
    Unlike plastics that rely on trimlines for flexibility, pre-preg materials allow precise control over strength and movement.
  • Energy Storage and Return
    The unique properties of pre-preg materials help store and return energy, supporting a more natural gait pattern. Read more about AFO biomechanics and how energy return impacts mobility.

HighTide Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs

Designed with fuller trimlines and adjustability in mind, the HighTide AFO offers:

  • Customizable Fit – Fuller, yet flexible trimlines allow for precise adjustments tailored to individual needs.
  • Enhanced Comfort & Proprioception – Increased surface area distributes pressure evenly, improving alignment and body awareness.
  • Improved Wearability – Flexible openings reduce edge pressure, minimizing skin irritation and promoting longer wear times.
  • Adjustability – Practitioners can fine-tune the fit without compromising the device’s integrity.
  • Lightweight Construction – Provides superior support without the bulk of traditional materials.

LowTide Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs

For a more streamlined and discreet design, the LowTide AFO delivers:

  • Sleek, Low-Profile Design – Reduced trimlines for a minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing function.
  • Adjustable Support – Customizable rigidity and flexibility to meet individual mobility needs.
  • Flexible Adjustability – Practitioners can modify the device for an optimized fit.
  • Improved Footwear Compatibility – The slim design allows for a broader range of footwear options.
  • Lightweight & Comfortable – Lighter than traditional materials, enhancing ease of wear.

The Future of Orthotic Solutions

The HighTide and LowTide Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs represent a major advancement in orthotic design, offering increased customization, comfort, and functionality. Whether patients require the enhanced support of the HighTide or the low-profile fit of the LowTide, these innovative options help improve mobility and quality of life. With the added benefits of energy return, reduced weight, and greater adjustability, flexible pre-preg materials are redefining orthotic care for both patients and practitioners.

For more information on our Flexible Pre-Preg AFOs, visit wcblfab.com or contact us today.

Sources:

Groner, Cary Lower Extremity Review October, 2010, Strengthening the case for carbon fiber AFOs

Zou D, He T, Dailey M, Smith KE, Silva MJ, Sinacore DR, Mueller MJ, Hastings MK. Experimental and computational analysis of composite ankle-foot orthosis. J Rehabil Res Dev. 2014;51(10):1525-36. doi: 10.1682/JRRD.2014-02-0046. PMID: 25856154; PMCID: PMC5976490.

https://www.infinitetech.org/carbon-fiber-vs-thermoplastic-in-prosthetics-and-orthotics

Kaufman KR, Bernhardt K. Functional performance differences between carbon fiber and fiberglass prosthetic feet. Prosthet Orthot Int. 2021 Jun 1;45(3):205-213. doi: 10.1097/PXR.0000000000000004. PMID: 33856155.

https://www.nitprocomposites.com/blog/why-carbon-fiber-is-the-preferred-material-for-prosthetic-devices

Explore more professional resources through the American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists.