What Makes a DAFO® Unique

The Dynamic Ankle Foot Orthosis (DAFO®) was born out of a collaboration between an orthotist and a physical therapist, driven by a shared vision: to create a flexible, contoured brace that enhances foot and ankle alignment while allowing for the natural movement children need to learn and grow. Unlike traditional rigid ankle foot orthoses (AFOs), DAFOs offer a thin, flexible design that provides better sensation and alignment, helping children move freely within a supportive range.

At Cascade Dafo, we believe that movement is essential to development. Our goal is to create orthotics that support children while still giving them the freedom to explore their environment, much like guardrails on a highway, offering stability but not limiting progress.

What Makes a DAFO® Unique
The Team Approach

The Team Approach

The creation of DAFOs remains a testament to the power of collaboration. The original design came from the joint efforts of Don Buethorn, our founder, an orthotist, and Nancy Hylton, a physical therapist, working together to develop a product that could offer both stability and flexibility for pediatric patients. This collaborative, patient-focused approach continues to be at the heart of every orthotic solution we offer.

We believe that when patients, parents, therapists, caregivers, orthotists, and doctors work together as a team, the result is a bracing solution that best serves the child’s needs. Whether collaborating in-person, over the phone, or by email, we ensure open communication so that each patient receives the best possible care.

Our History

In 1980, Cascade Dafo was founded by Don Buethorn, CPO, with a vision to help children move more freely and comfortably. Starting with a small orthotics & prosthetics clinic in Northwest Washington.

The breakthrough came when Nancy Hylton, a well-known physical therapist, approached Don with an innovative idea: to create a lighter, more flexible AFO that would provide the same support as the traditional plaster devices but with the added benefit of allowing for natural movement. Despite skepticism from many, Don and Nancy succeeded in creating the first DAFO, a revolutionary device that quickly gained recognition for its ability to improve patient compliance and enhance mobility.

Since then, Cascade Dafo has grown into the industry leader in pediatric orthotics, with a commitment to innovation, customer support, and the development of products that prioritize the comfort and mobility of every patient.

1980

Cascade DAFO founded by Don Buethorn, CPO, in Fernadale, WA.

1990

First DAFO design created providing flexible support for pediatric patients.

Present

Cascade Dafo grows into a global leader in pediatric orthotics, continually innovating to meet the needs of patients worldwide.

Don Buethorn

Founder's Note

“In 1980, Cascade Dafo was founded by Don Buethorn, CPO, with a vision to help children move more freely and comfortably. Starting with a small orthotics & prosthetics clinic in Northwest Washington.

The breakthrough came when Nancy Hylton, a well-known physical therapist, approached Don with an innovative idea: to create a lighter, more flexible AFO that would provide the same support as the traditional plaster devices but with the added benefit of allowing for natural movement. Despite skepticism from many, Don and Nancy succeeded in creating the first DAFO, a revolutionary device that quickly gained recognition for its ability to improve patient compliance and enhance mobility.”

- Don Buethorn, Founder, Cascade DAFO