Reasons for AFO Abandonment by Children in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Compliance with the usage of an ankle-foot orthosis () is critical for improving gait, balance, and functional activity. To ensure a suitable fit, support, and encouragement, it is essential to include the family in the treatment plan for children who frequently refuse to wear AFOs. Given that children frequently find it challenging to communicate themselves verbally, caregivers play a critical role in comprehending the child's nonverbal clues and actions. It is unknown whether these factors affect adherence to the use of AFO in Saudi Arabia (SA) or if there were other factors.

Methodology: This phenomenological and qualitative study used a thematic analysis instrument. This study investigated the root causes of abandonment in two cities (Madinah and Riyadh) in SA that are known for providing copious amounts of AFOs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers to obtain feedback regarding the problem of abandoning reasons that would be useful for subsequent quantitative studies and data analysis.

Results: The benefits of the orthosis, the impact of the orthosis on a child's quality of life, and the possible alterations of the AFO designs are the three areas identified in the interviews. These three areas revealed, according to the participants' comments, fabrication errors that result in pain and discomfort from the AFOs, inaccurate measurement during casting, and delayed follow-up sessions are the most frequent reasons for abandonment. It's noteworthy to observe that the AFOs' quality is more important than their psychological and aesthetic impacts.