A natural extension to making orthopaedic shoes and orthotic foot supports are leg braces, or calipers. Peter Schweiger, a licentiate of the British Institute of Surgical Technologists, has over 40 years of experience in shoe making and more than 30 years experience in fitting orthopaedic devices. We have been able to help many people stand up and enjoy walking, who didn't before and are happy to measure up and make supports for those who need or want leg brace calipers.
We make leg brace supports for the foot, ankle and the knee joints. These leg braces may require the shoes or boots to be modified or made to measure to work together with the support. If you are interested in one of our supports or to find out what we can do to help you, please Contact us.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 1: A drop foot splint. This is an example of a cosmetic support designed to stop the fore foot dropping. It is made to an individual cast. Fitting close to the leg and foot, it can be quite well hidden. They work well with Finn Comfort ready made shoes where the insoles can be taken out to make room for the splint. This splint can allow some movement for people who have use of their calves, but cannot lift their foot.
Fig. 2: This is an example of a single sided ankle caliper with an ankle strap and a toe raising spring.
Fig. 3
Fig. 3: Providing support to the knee, we make KAFO (Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis) supports. This is a full length caliper with a corset top and can be weight bearing.
There are many options available for the joints and sockets on these supports.
Fig. 4:
Fig. 4: A Barlock or Balelock Joint makes it easier to release the knee joint.
Fig. 6.1
Fig. 6.2
Fig. 6.1: A Manual Ring Lock .
Fig. 6.2: An Automatic Ring Lock locks automatically when the caliper is straightened.
For further information about these orthotics or to enquire about having a device made, please Contact us.
Metal sided ones that slot into the heels of shoes, either to support the ankles (AFO) or also the knees (KAFO). Also cosmetic calipers made to a plaster cast of the leg. These then fit inside shoes. They can be to support a drop foot, called a drop foot splint, or full length with knee joints.
Not always. Usually in low heeled shoes with backs and good fastening. We have Finn comfort shoes that have removable insoles and they then have space for the splint.
The ankle ones are from £400 and the full length one from £1100. Prices are dependent on the sort of knee joints and finishes.
Yes it can.