Ankle brace

Today we had our first visit with the Orthotist.  His name was Travis Carlson, CPO (Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist)  When we got there, he brought us back to the room and asked us why we were there.  We said Nash had PFFD and needed to be fitted for an ankle brace and shoe lift.  Before I had the chance to explain... he said "Oh yes! Proximal Focal Femoral Defficiency".  I was kind of surprised.  I usually have to tell the doctor what it is but he was pretty familiar with it! What a relief!!

He then explained we would be getting an AFO (ankle foot orthoses) brace.  The AFO has a hinged ankle so he can walk, run, and jump.  The brace goes around his foot and up his leg, just below the knee, to stabilize the ankle.  It is separate from the shoe so we will get the brace first and then a pair of shoes to make sure they fit over the brace.  We are very excited to go shoe shopping! :)

Travis had to make a mold of Nash's foot first.  He did that by putting a nylon over his leg and wrapping it like he was giving him a cast.  All Nash had to do was sit still for just a couple minutes.  Piece of cake!  Travis just talked to him and made him giggle a little and before we knew it...DONE!  He then cut the cast off.  We got to choose a pattern to put on the brace and choose the color of straps, too.  Its going to be pretty cool!  He said he had to send it to Washington to be made because that's where they specialize in pediactric prosthetics.  We should have it in about 2 weeks!! 

Chris and I felt really good after we left...another step in the right direction. :)

Our Orthitist, Travis, making the mold



Waiting patiently!  Such a good boy :)