Guest guest Posted June 2, 2005 Report Share Posted June 2, 2005 In response to Lee's inquiry about the silicone AFO from Dorset, I can report that I was evaluated for a set in Manchester, New Hampshire. Arthur Graham, the Dorset representative, thought I was a borderline candidate because my CMT is rather advanced. (I'm 60 and in AFOs for the past 12 years, working my way through custom plastic AFOs, hinged AFOs, Toe-Offs and Ypsilon braces.) He measured my feet and got me an almost-exactly-the-right-size pair to take on a test walk. They were quite comfortable, and my regular orthotist was amazed that such flimsy-looking orthotics provided enough support for me to walk the length of the building. (It was really quite amusing to have all the staff, from the president of the company to the secretaries and technicians, gather round to see this new fangled device.) When I took them off after 15-20 minutes, they were quite wet from the perspiration from my feet. This was in January, so I imagine summer weather would present a bigger problem. Based on my short stroll, I wasn't sure if the SAFOs were going to offer the kind of support I need at this stage in my disease. Arthur put me in touch with a , a gentleman who had both SAFOs and the Helios brace, which I was also considering. told me he is quite happy with his SAFOs and uses them for short trips and when he performs on stage. For longer excursions and challenging terrain he uses the stronger Helios braces.I wish I had known about the SAFOs a few years ago when my legs were stronger. They might have been a good choice for me at that time. As it turned out, I decided to go to Las Vegas to be fitted with Helios braces from Mitch Warner at Ortho Rehab Design. I have had my new braces a month now and I am delighted with them. I have a more fluid gait and more stability and balance than I have had in years. Because of the correction, my feet actually feel better in the braces than out of them. Additionally, they are less bulky than my previous braces and fit nicely in a broader array of shoe styles. (Not Manolo Blaniks, but not necessarily New Balance all the time, either!) I'm still waiting to hear how much of the cost my insurance will cover. Meanwhile, I am enjoying being able to stand and carry on a conversation or wait in line at the checkout without looking for someone or something to hang onto. Who knew such small things could be so satisfying? Donna Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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