Individuals with proximal weakness of the lower extremity are often prescribed knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs), also known as long-leg braces, to compensate for severe weakness of the lower limb muscles. More than 1.5 million people in the United States have partial or complete paralysis of the extremities. 1 Prevalence of paralysis increases with age, and it is not surprising that the mobility of individuals with neuromuscular disorders is one of the most common and complicated issues treated by rehabilitation professionals. Many of these individuals require assistive technology (AT) in the form of an orthosis to enhance mobility. 2 It is important to note that although there is a greater need for assistive technology as age increases, the use of AT actually decreases with age. 3 This usage with age is due, in part, to consumer rejection of KAFO designs.

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