Custom

DAFO 4

This image shows a Cascade DAFO product DAFO 4

Product Features

The DAFO 4 is a custom-fabricated supramalleolar orthosis that offers full wraparound control of foot position with no restriction to ankle movement in the sagittal plane. It offers an ideal level of control for feet that are poorly positioned, whether due to low or high tone, but where ankle function is good enough that no plantarflexion/dorsiflexion restriction is required. With the ideal level of control for feet that are poorly positioned (whether due to low or high tone), but where no plantarflexion/dorsiflexion restriction is required, the DAFO 4 is particularly well suited for younger/smaller patients whose feet have collapsed into moderate pronation due to low muscle tone

This image shows product features of the product DAFO 4

Patient Presentation

Learn more about the common gait and foot presentation groups our orthotic solutions help manage. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or clinician, understanding these presentation groups is the first step in finding the right support for your child. 

This image showcases the structure of the foot that is suffering from Low Tone Pronation

Low Tone Pronation

Low muscle tone in the foot and ankle limits the body’s ability to hold or transition through balanced positions.

High Tone Pronation/Supination

High Tone Pronation/Supination

Understanding how increased muscle tone affects foot posture, movement, and stability, and how the right orthotic support can help guide safer, more efficient mobility.

This image showcases the structure of the foot that is suffering from Swing Phase Inconsistency

Swing Phase Inconsistency

Understanding how inconsistent ankle control during walking affects movement, balance, and confidence, and how orthotic support can help guide smoother, more reliable gait patterns.

This image showcases the structure of the foot that is suffering from Excess Plantarflexion

Excess Plantarflexion

Understanding how persistent downward ankle positioning affects walking, balance, and endurance, and how thoughtful orthotic support can help guide safer, more efficient movement.

This image showcases the structure of the foot that is suffering from Knee Hyperextension

Knee Hyperextension

Understanding how limited ankle movement can shift forces upward during walking, leading the knee to move beyond its usual range, and how thoughtful support can help guide safer, more efficient movement.

This image showcases structure of the foot that is suffering from Excess Dorsiflexion

Excess Dorsiflexion

Understanding how too much upward ankle movement during weight-bearing can affect posture, balance, and gait, and how the right support can help guide more efficient movement through the ankle, knee, and hip.

Sizing, Ordering & Fabrication for DAFO 4

1

Obtain a cast or 3D scan of the patient's foot and ankle.

2

Complete a custom order form for the patient's foot and ankle.

3

Order the best size and style for the patient's foot and ankle.

4

Submit the cast or scan of the patient's foot and ankle.

Custom

DAFO 4

Complete foot control with free ankle movement for active children.

This image shows a Cascade DAFO product DAFO 4

Real-World Outcomes of DAFO 4

In before-and-after assessments, patients wearing DAFO 4 demonstrated:

Restored midfoot and heel alignment

Restored midfoot and heel alignment

Improved confidence in standing and walking

Improved confidence in standing and walking

Better balance during daily activities

Better balance during daily activities

Increased tolerance and wear time

Increased tolerance and wear time

Common Questions about DAFO 4

DAFO 4 is designed for children who need moderate to strong foot correction but still have good plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, making it a strong option when foot control is needed without limiting ankle movement.

DAFO 4 provides full wraparound control of the foot while allowing the ankle to move freely. It is best suited for patients who need strong foot alignment support but do not need sagittal-plane restriction at the ankle.

Yes. It is specifically designed to provide precise correction for pronation or supination through a full wraparound shell that supports better foot position and alignment.

No. Its supramalleolar trimlines allow unrestricted plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, which helps preserve natural ankle motion.