The release of the new Barbie movie has focused attention on the popular children’s toy. The maker of the doll line has recently added a Down's Syndrome Barbie to the lineup for the purpose of promoting inclusivity of special needs children into the world of Barbie. Featured with this doll is a pair of pink Ankle-Foot Orthoses.
According to an article from People Magazine dated April 23, 2023, “The Barbie Fashionista doll with Down syndrome also wears pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs) to match her outfit and her sneakers tout a zipper detail," Mattel added. "Some children with Down syndrome use orthotics to support their feet and ankles, and NDSS provided a box of orthotics to serve as real-life inspiration for the ones this Barbie Fashionista is wearing, matched to her outfit and the bright colors in her design.”
The lesson for those of us who prescribe and dispense this type of device, to children as well as adults, is there is no longer a stigma attached to wearing an assistive device. We should encourage our patients to not feel their AFO is something to hide, no shame or embarrassment is necessary. Even Barbie proudly wears her AFO as a badge of courage as well as a fashion accessory.
The team at KevinRoot Medical is always ready to fully support our clients and their patients.
