An exploration of bespoke, rigid, thermoplastic ankle-foot orthosis prescriptions and manufacturing techniques in the UK
Eddison, Nicola Dudley, Alice Chatzistergos, Panagiotis Hodgkin, Daniel Whittaker, Danielle Gathern, Megan Chockalingam, Nachiappan
Eddison, Nicola
Dudley, Alice
Chatzistergos, Panagiotis
Hodgkin, Daniel
Whittaker, Danielle
Gathern, Megan
Chockalingam, Nachiappan
Abstract
This study uses a mixed-methods approach to explore the perspectives of orthotic technicians in the UK on the prescription and manufacturing of bespoke, rigid, thermoplastic ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) and the information they receive from clinicians to guide manufacturing. A questionnaire captured the information included in a typical AFO prescription and orthotic technicians' perspective regarding its clarity. Qualitative interviews with technicians revealed key challenges including a lack of standardization, communication gaps with clinicians, and workforce training needs. These insights are considered alongside recent technical findings that quantified AFO thickness variability and biomechanical implications. The findings highlight the need for standardized prescription protocols, improved quality assurance, and collaborative efforts to support consistency and patient outcomes.
MIDER Authors
Affiliations
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust; Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent; University of Dundee; George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton; East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust; TayCare Medical Ltd, Leeds; University of Malta
Date
2025-12-01
Type
Article
Collections
Citation
Eddison N, Dudley A, Chatzistergos P, Hodgkin D, Whittaker D, Gathern M, Chockalingam N. An exploration of bespoke, rigid, thermoplastic ankle-foot orthosis prescriptions and manufacturing techniques in the UK. Assist Technol. 2025 Dec 1:1-7. doi: 10.1080/10400435.2025.2586616. Epub ahead of print.