FAQ's SAFO
What is a SAFO?
The SAFO (Silicone Ankle Foot Orthosis) is an orthotic device that helps people with 'plantar flexed foot' – commonly known as drop foot. We make each SAFO individually from a plaster cast mould of our client's foot and leg.
How does it work?
Unlike traditional plastic and carbon fibre ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) the SAFO lifts the foot from the top. This is a natural action and does not cause pressure of discomfort underneath the foot's plantar aspect.
What is it made of?
We make the SAFO from silicone, except the Velcro straps. The different densities of silicone create a flexible, dynamic and supportive total-contact orthotic solution. The result is a product that greatly reduces the risk of pressure areas.
Is it suitable for everyone with drop foot?
Like most things in life, it isn't a cure-all. However, the SAFO can greatly improve walking for people who suffer drop foot through medical conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT), peripheral neuropathies, Guillain Barre Syndrome, trauma injuries, polio, multiple sclerosis (MS), and some spinal injuries. It can also help people with abnormal muscle tone through strokes and cerebral palsy.
Can I order the SAFO direct through Dorset Orthopaedic?
As the SAFO is a worldwide patented product, Dorset Orthopaedic is the only manufacturer. Providing a SAFO requires a qualified professional to assess the patient and take a plaster mould. The professional then sends the mould to Dorset Orthopaedic and we create the SAFO.
Where can I be assesed?
Dorset Orthopedic has two private clinics in the UK. You can come to our private clinic in Ringwood, Hampshire, or our visiting clinic in Birmingham, UK. We also work with partners around the UK and the world, and we can refer you to these clinics. We are also happy to discuss SAFO Provision with you local clinician if they are not aware of the product.
What's the difference between a SAFO One and Walk?
Both have the same construction and function. However, the straps differ. The SAFO One's strap is integrated into the silicone, while the SAFO Walk's straps are external to the device and attached with a single rivet.
What is the SAFO Go?
The SAFO Go is an off-the-shelf product that comes in standard adult and children shoes sizes. It comes with an adjustable foot section (which is fastened permanently with a silicone adhesive) and an adjustable leg section with external strapping.
Is it easy to put on and take off?
Yes, very easy. The SAFO has Velcro straps that fasten on the inside of the leg. The foot section slides on and the Velcro straps fasten round the lower part of the leg. Most patients wear it directly against the skin. However, if the SAFO is new, it's a good idea to sprinkle a little talcum powder into it before wearing. You can also wear a thin sock or stocking under the SAFO.
Do I have to wear a shoe to keep it in place?
No. The SAFO is like a sock and you can wear it without a shoe. Most people can wear the SAFO with normal size footwear, even sandals. However, without a shoe, you may lose some of the SAFO's lifting function.
Can I swim or shower in it?
Yes, you can swim or shower wearing a SAFO. Chlorine and salt water won't affect it, however, remember to observe good hygiene. Some people have said the fastening on SAFO One comes loose in water. However, this isn't a problem with SAFO Walk.
How long will it last?
The SAFO lasts around two to three years, depending on your activity. Some patients have had them much longer, however, they tend to walk less regularly.
Can I drive a car while wearing a SAFO?
You should be fine, however, check with your doctor and insurance company. Many people say the SAFO gives them better sensation and control of the pedals. SAFOs are also more comfortable to drive in than rigid AFOs (ankle foot orthoses).
What are the advantages of the SAFO over traditional rigid AFOs (ankle foot orthoses)?
- Replicates normal foot action when walking
- Provides normal alignment of ankle at mid stance
- Reduced risk of pressure areas
- Easy to put on and take off
- Requires little maintenance
- Fits into normal footwear
- Can be worn without footwear, and when showering or swimming
- Cosmetically attractive
What if we need a greater biomechanical correction of the foot/ankle complex?
It's fine to use the SAFO with an insole or Functional Foot Orthosis (FFO). This is generally achieved using a separate orthosis. However, we have also achieved this through an orthosis combined with a SAFO. For more information, please call us on +44 (0) 1425 481742 or email orthoticmail@dorset-ortho.com.
