Custom-Made SFAB (Steenbeek Foot Abduction Brace)
The Custom-Made SFAB (Steenbeek Foot Abduction Brace) is a specialised paediatric orthotic device designed to maintain corrected foot positioning in children undergoing treatment for congenital clubfoot (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus – CTEV), particularly following correction using the Ponseti method. The brace consists of two specially designed orthopaedic shoes connected by a rigid metal abduction bar. The shoes feature durable black leather-like uppers, adjustable lace fastenings, and supportive soles, while the connecting bar helps maintain the feet in their prescribed outward rotation and positioning. Individually fitted according to the child’s foot measurements and treatment requirements, the SFAB helps maintain the correction achieved during clubfoot treatment and reduces the risk of recurrence when worn according to the prescribed schedule.
Key Features
Custom-Made Design: Individually sized and fitted according to the child’s foot measurements and orthopaedic treatment requirements.
Bilateral Foot Support: Features two specially designed shoes that hold the feet in their prescribed corrected positions.
Rigid Abduction Bar: Connects both shoes to maintain the prescribed separation and outward rotation of the feet.
Durable Orthopaedic Shoes: Constructed using strong black leather-like material for support and regular prescribed use.
Adjustable Lace Fastenings: Allow secure fitting and adjustment around the child’s feet.
Supportive Footbeds: Designed to provide appropriate foot positioning and support.
Strong Connecting Structure: Features a durable blue metal bar designed to maintain the prescribed foot alignment.
Customised Foot Positioning: The abduction angles and bar configuration are determined by the treating clinician.
Paediatric Design: Specifically intended for infants and young children receiving clubfoot treatment.
Recommended Uses
Congenital clubfoot (CTEV)
Maintenance of correction following Ponseti casting
Clubfoot treatment following Achilles tenotomy, where indicated
Prevention of clubfoot recurrence after successful correction
Paediatric orthopaedic rehabilitation
Children requiring prescribed foot abduction bracing
Benefits
Helps maintain corrected foot positioning following clubfoot treatment.
Reduces the risk of clubfoot recurrence when used as prescribed.
Maintains the prescribed outward rotation of the feet.
Supports long-term correction achieved through the Ponseti method.
Provides individually fitted foot support.
Offers a durable and practical orthotic solution for paediatric clubfoot management.
Supports continuity of treatment at home under professional guidance.
Important Information
The Custom-Made SFAB is a specialised medical orthosis requiring professional assessment, fitting, and regular follow-up by a qualified orthopaedic or rehabilitation professional.
The brace is primarily used to maintain correction after clubfoot treatment, rather than to correct an untreated rigid clubfoot deformity.
The prescribed foot abduction angles, bar length, and wearing schedule depend on the child’s condition and treatment protocol.
Under commonly used Ponseti protocols, the brace is initially worn for approximately 23 hours per day for three months after correction, followed by use during sleep and naps until around four to five years of age. The treating clinician determines the exact schedule.
Parents and caregivers should regularly inspect the child’s feet for redness, pressure marks, blisters, or discomfort and attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor growth and brace fit.
