HKAFO & Reciprocating Gait Orthosis — Walking Solutions for Paraplegia in Gwalior

A Hip Knee Ankle Foot Orthosis (HKAFO) is the most comprehensive lower limb orthotic system, providing support from the hip to the foot. HKAFOs are prescribed for patients with complete or near-complete lower limb paralysis who wish to stand and walk with orthotic assistance — including spinal cord injury (paraplegia), spina bifida, and severe neurological conditions.

The Reciprocating Gait Orthosis (RGO) is an advanced HKAFO design that couples the hip joints so that weight shift on one side initiates the swing of the opposite leg, enabling a reciprocal walking pattern. At Limbgenixx, Gwalior, we fit HKAFOs and RGOs with comprehensive gait training and rehabilitation. Serving patients from Madhya Pradesh and all of India.

Types of HKAFO (Hip-Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis)

Standard HKAFO

Traditional HKAFO with bilateral metal uprights, hip joint, knee locks, ankle control, and custom foot sections. Provides full lower limb support for standing and therapeutic ambulation in paraplegia.

Reciprocating Gait Orthosis (RGO)

Advanced HKAFO with a cable system linking both hip joints. Weight shift to one side drives the opposite leg forward in a reciprocating pattern, enabling more natural walking motion for T10-L2 spinal cord injury.

Hip Guidance Orthosis (HGO)

Hip Guidance Orthosis uses free hip joints and a rigid pelvic section with KAFOs. The patient uses trunk movement and crutches to advance each leg. Designed for thoracic SCI patients aiming for therapeutic ambulation.

Pediatric HKAFO

Custom-sized HKAFO and RGO for children with spina bifida, cerebral palsy involving both legs, or congenital lower limb conditions. Designed with growth adjustability and child-appropriate materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs an HKAFO?

HKAFO is prescribed for patients with complete or near-complete lower limb paralysis due to: spinal cord injury (T4-L2 level), spina bifida with bilateral lower limb involvement, congenital conditions affecting both lower limbs, and other neurological conditions causing paraplegia.

What is an RGO (Reciprocating Gait Orthosis) and how does it work?

An RGO (Reciprocating Gait Orthosis) is an HKAFO with a cable or linkage system connecting both hip joints. When the patient shifts weight to the right side, the cable system pulls the left hip into flexion, advancing the left leg forward — and vice versa. This reciprocating mechanism enables a walking pattern using gravity and trunk movement rather than muscle power.

What is the cost of HKAFO in India?

HKAFO cost in India: Traditional metal HKAFO Rs. 25,000–60,000; Custom plastic/carbon HKAFO Rs. 60,000–1,50,000; RGO system Rs. 1,00,000–3,00,000 depending on components. Contact Limbgenixx for assessment and exact pricing.

Can a paraplegic person walk with an HKAFO?

Yes, with appropriate training. Most paraplegic patients with HKAFO/RGO achieve therapeutic ambulation — walking short distances with forearm crutches or a walker. The goal is typically functional standing, exercise, and short-distance mobility rather than replacing wheelchair use.

How long is rehabilitation after getting an HKAFO?

HKAFO rehabilitation is a long process: initial fitting and standing training 2–4 weeks; parallel bar walking 4–8 weeks; crutch walking training 2–4 months; community ambulation training ongoing. Most patients need 3–6 months of intensive physiotherapy combined with HKAFO use.