Achieving the Best Outcomes

ProLab Casting Standard

• Use a semiweightbearing (SWB) casting technique for accommodative orthoses
• Accommodative casting technique for foot orthoses and ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) varies slightly

Casting for Accommodative Foot Orthoses

According to the Prescription Foot Orthotic Lab Association (PFOLA), an accommodative orthosis is an orthotic device that supports the foot and prevents further deformity, but does not attempt to align the joints of the foot during stance or gait. The recommended casting technique for accommodative orthoses is a semiweightbearing negative cast, since it captures the foot in its accommodated or compensated position. ProLab recommends this technique to achieve the best outcomes.

ProLab accepts plaster casts, STS socks, or foam boxes for accommodative foot orthoses.

Casting for Gauntlet Stabilizer AFO

To achieve the best outcome, ProLab recommends a semiweightbearing casting technique using a footboard with ½” heel-raise to compensate for the heel height differential in most shoes. Ensure that your cast is at least 1” taller than the requested height when casting for an AFO.

ProLab recommends the mid-leg STS casting sock when casting for the Stabilizer AFO.

Step-by-Step Stabilizer AFO casting instructions are available on video or you can refer to the guide below.

Accommodative AFO Casting (with STS Midleg Sock)
Apply protective black strip and tubing to create a cutting channel.	Cover lower leg with protective bag.
Gather STS Sock and slide onto foot and leg.	Roll sock up leg. (cast must be at least 1” higher than desired AFO height)
For faster setting, spray water on sock.	Position leg at 90° to thigh and foot at 90° to leg. Use casting platform that provides 1/2” heel rise with foam pad on top.
Mark medial and lateral malleoli and navicular. Mark any prominences.	Pull tube out from top to create cutting channel. Use the ProLab cutter to cut along tubing channel.