MD Orthopaedics has been providing comfortable bracing solutions for children with clubfoot for many years, including the nighttime ADM (abduction dorsiflexion mechanism). This is a single brace system that is used as an alternative to "boots and bar" type bracing for the prevention of clubfoot relapse. Unlike the "boots and bar" systems, it allows the two feet to move independently and is well tolerated and comfortable. It maintains the foot's correction with dual spring mechanisms. The ADM has been very successful for many clubfoot children who have not been able to tolerate the boots and bar, and is even considered an option as an alternative to surgery for relapsing clubfoot.



Recently, the clubfoot community has been blindsided by their decision to discontinue manufacturing and selling the ADM brace for sizes 1-5 citing the following:

"The nighttime ADM was designed as an alternative to traditional clubfoot bracing, so this may be a good fit for children who are non-compliant, who have relapsed, or who may not be able to use traditional bracing methods for other medical reasons. . . Recent studies have indicated a potential long-term risk of talar flattening and relapse with unilateral braces. While the studies did not directly test the ADM, we feel it necessary to exercise caution until long-term studies of the ADM have been performed. This stance was taken under the advice of several prestigious clubfoot physicians."



MD Orthopaedics has based their decision on a study that doesn't even involve the ADM brace. Clubfoot treatment has come so far over the years, and each time new advancements were made, doctors were hesitant to try something new. And ultimately, the new methods were proven to be beneficial and more advanced. There are currently no studies that conclude the ADM is damaging or non-beneficial. There is only testimony after testimony of parents and children who have ultimately benefitted from the ADM. My 21 month son sleeping an extra 2 hours every night, and being more alert and playful and happy during the day is a perfect example.



Many children can't tolerate the bar. Some have other medical problems that prohibit them from using the bar. They are now left with no solutions. For some, going back to the bar isn't an option, and for others, they're reminded of long sleepless nights of non stop screaming and the temptation to quit treatment altogether.



MD Orthopedic stated last year that approximately 6,000 children in 65 countries are now using ADM.



Please help us be the voices of our children! Please sign and let MD Orthopaedics know how many lives they are affecting with their decision, and encourage them to continue production, at least until C-Pro (the original developers) can manufacture a replacement option.



