 
What's the SAFO (Silicone Ankle Foot Orthosis) for?
The SAFO (Silicone Ankle Foot Orthosis) helps sufferers of Charcot Marie Tooth Syndrome, (CMT), Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Muscular Dystrophy, Cerebral Palsy (CP) or another neurological and orthopaedic conditions to overcome limited mobility caused by drop foot.
How does the SAFO work? Traditional rigid plastic ankle foot orthotic braces can be uncomfortable and unsightly. In contrast, the flexible SAFO, hand made to fit from a plaster cast of your own foot, is both discrete and comfortable. Our team of skilled silicone technicians transform your cast into a SAFO using a durable but flexible silicone material. They have made over 2500 SAFO’s to date. The SAFO is strengthened by a central reinforcement supporting and lifting the foot to allow you to walk and balance confidently and securely. According to our patients, another benefit of wearing a SAFO is the improved sensation (proprioception) of wearing the silicone next to their skin.
How do I get one?
It’s very easy to get a SAFO. We have a whole range of SAFO’s to choose from with different finishes and strapping options entirely to suit your taste and lifestyle. SAFO’s are currently being funded by some NHS Trusts and we suggest you contact your consultant or GP to ascertain whether this service is available through them. Alternatively you can choose to fund your SAFO privately and book a consultation direct by calling 01425 483 032 and speaking to Sue or Marion about an appointment.
Matthew Hughes orthotist at Dorset Orthopaedic who has fitted hundreds of patients with SAFO's comments;
"The number of drop foot patients who could benefit from the SAFO is enormous, it is not only the dynamic affect of lifting the foot they benefit from but also proprioception of knowing where the foot is in space."
 What SAFO wearers say
'Total freedom' - more comments from SAFO wearers
Useful Links
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New clinical report for Cerebral Palsy (CP) children
Click here to read this exciting new report.
 
Queen's Awards 2004 for Innovation for the SAFO (Silicone Ankle
Foot Orthosis)
Dorset Orthopaedic received this Award for Outstanding
Innovation in aids for sufferers of "drop foot". This
condition affects one in every one thousand people in the western
world. Traditional treatments use rigid materials to support the
foot and ankle. This helps the patient, but walking can often be
uncomfortable and mechanical in appearance.
The company's patented SAFO provides the appropriate
support, and incorporates a reinforcement to assist the lifting
of the foot during the swing phase of walking to prevent the patient
tripping. The SAFO allows the patients to achieve a good "heel
strike" with a smooth transition to "toe off".
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