I did a bit of quick research and found that since afo's are generally customized to your leg shape, you're most likely going to have to do some "legwork" pardon the pun, and call around to your local orthotics places and see if you can speak to the orthotists and find someone who understands what you want and would be willing to work with you to build to your request, not just stick you in something and shove you out the door like the H place. Given that you're petite, dealing with muscle atrophy, etc, I would start by making calls, and explain to the places that you don't want a standard afo, you already have that, that you need one that will allow you to rebuild the leg function so you won't lose the ability to walk effectively, and have hip and back problems develop that you don't have now. Look in nearby towns within driving distance if you need to, depending on the number of available providers in your area.

Hmmm.... I wonder if you could pursue things from an electronic standpoint - use one of the advanced search engines to locate businesses that do articulating afos, since location isn't that important, and work up an email that you can send to them and ask for further information that would basically require that an orthotist answer your questions. Have some pictures ready, and mention that you can send images to clarify your issues. Sometimes people will answer emails when they don't have time to spend in person, since emails can be dealt with after hours. Perhaps even the local companies have web sites, and would be more likely to consider an "electronic consultation."

Then you can take the time to create your email offline, and have it ready to just copy and paste to send when you find a company you'd like to get more information from. I would specifically mention in the email that you have a challenging case, and that you are looking for an orthotist to work with who is willing to help you with an articulating afo specifically.

Just another idea to consider for how to get them to talk to you without an appointment and determining if they could help. Some people can't resist a challenge, and an email may be one way to get past the receptionist, since they often can't analyze medical/technical data properly.

Thanks again DM...the electronic way around receptionists is an excellent idea! I will send pics of what HASN'T worked for me along with a pic of my lower leg and specifics about the need for lightweight controlled articulation. I will let the knee geeks know about the outcome. Di

Pam...I was measured with the typical cast method. The 3D image sounds interesting. With my situation, however, it was the design type that was a failure. My ability to hack away with power tools got me to a less bulky design with the off-the-shelf brace. I won't be able to do that with an articulating brace though.  Thanks, di