Dec 14, 2023 · An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a hard brace worn on the lower leg that improves overall walking safety and efficiency for people with certain medical conditions. AFOs provide gait stability, keep joints properly aligned, and help compensate for muscle weakness.

They are designed to provide support and proper joint alignment of the foot and ankle, assisting in instances of muscle weakness and helping protect the foot and leg. AFOs are typically made of plastic, carbon-fiber, or metals, with various levels of rigidity based on the needs of the individual.

AFO o Desire for during functional mobility o Material strength provides ↑ motion restriction & ankle control o ↑ AFO stiffness may lead to ↑knee flexion at IC o Anterior trimlines ↑ ankle control & AFO rigidity o AFO set in DF leads to knee flexion in stance o AFO set in PF leads to knee extension in stance o ↑ AFO stiffness may ↑ knee

Your orthotist will determine how to put on your specific AFO, but below are some general guidelines: 1. Always wear a clean sock that reaches as high as the top of the brace. Smooth out any wrinkles. 2. Be sure your heel has good contact with the bottom of the AFO. 3. If your AFO has an ankle strap, tighten it first to hold your heel down in ...

Mar 10, 2025 · Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) can make a life-changing difference if you struggle with walking, balance, or stability. Whether due to injury, a neurological condition, or muscle weakness, the right AFO can give you the support you need to move confidently.

Jul 20, 2023 · Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs) are vital devices used in physical rehabilitation and daily life support for individuals with specific needs. These assistive tools provide valuable support to the foot and ankle region, compensating for weakness, accommodating deformities, and …

An ankle-foot orthosis, or AFO, is a support intended to control the position and motion of the ankle, compensate for weakness, or correct deformities. AFOs can be used to support weak limbs, or to position a limb with contracted muscles into a more normal position.

(1) Background: ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is the most commonly prescribed orthosis to patients with foot drop, and ankle and foot problems. In this study, we aimed to review the commonly used types of AFO and introduce the recent development of AFO. (2) Methods: narrative review.

There are three main types of AFOs: flexible, rigid and jointed. Each device has specific advantages and disadvantages. The goal of the orthotist is to create an apparatus that ultimately enables the patient to achieve their highest functional level.

Ankle foot orthoses AFOs are external biomechanical devices utilized on lower limbs to stabilize the joints, improve the gait and physical functioning of the affected lower limb.