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Orthosis - Ankle Foot with Ankle Joints - Custom Made

Line Item Description

This NDIS support item falls under the Capital budget and is used for the Rental of Assistive Technology. It specifically covers the rental of a Custom Made Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) with Ankle Joints, corresponding to Registration Group 0135 (Prostheses and Orthoses).

This is a highly advanced form of ankle foot orthosis. Unlike a solid or non-jointed AFO, this device incorporates an articulated mechanical joint at the ankle. The custom-made aspect ensures a precise fit based on the participant’s unique anatomy, while the joint allows for:

Controlled Movement: The joint can be configured (e.g., stops, assist springs) to permit specific ranges of motion (like limited ankle dorsiflexion or plantarflexion) while blocking unwanted movement, which is critical for complex gait pathologies.

Functional Mobility: It promotes a more natural walking pattern (gait) compared to a fixed brace, facilitating activities like climbing stairs or walking on uneven ground while maintaining stability.

Rental is the most appropriate funding mechanism for this complex, high-value item when:

In-Depth Trial of Joint Mechanisms: The clinical team needs to extensively trial different joint configurations or materials to determine the optimal balance of support and mobility before a permanent device is manufactured.

Dynamic Needs: The participant’s functional or anatomical presentation is expected to change quickly due to growth, rehabilitation, or a fluctuating condition, requiring short-term use of different custom-fitted devices.

Post-Surgical Management: It is needed for a fixed recovery period where precise, adjustable control of ankle movement is necessary.

This rental support ensures participants receive the highest level of tailored, biomechanical assistance for their lower limb function and mobility goals on a flexible basis.