Reciprocating Gait Orthosis Standard For Hospital

The term Reciprocating Gait Orthosis refers to a unique form of HKAFO (see HKAFO site). This device is generally a right and left KAFO (see KAFO site) connected to a pelvic section with a reciprocating mechanism. This type of device is used with children who suffer from paralysis of the lower trunk, hips, and lower extremities.
The KAFO sections control the lower extremities and maintain them in proper walking alignment. The purpose of the reciprocating pelvic section is to control the hips and lower trunk and prevent simultaneous hip flexion. Extension of one hip causes the simultaneous or reciprocal flexion of the other hip, thereby enabling the child to take a step. The child uses upper trunk, shoulder, and arm muscles to operate the device with the assistance of either crutches or a walker. This device is usually limited to use in therapy or household walking.