Safety for AFO Leg Supports

An Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a leg brace that begins behind the knee, continues along the back of the lower leg and ends along the bottom of the foot. AFOs can be bought premade or custom molded by a qualified health care professional.

Purpose

An AFO is used to keep your ankle joint stable when muscles or the nerves supplying them are not functioning properly. According to Dr. Doug Richie, DPM, AFOs are most commonly prescribed for post-stroke foot drop and neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis. They can also be used temporarily to improve gait in the case of developmental delay.

Fitting

The heel of our AFO should sit all the way into the heel cup before you fasten the Velcro straps, to prevent rubbing during walking. Skin should be checked for red marks each time your AFO is removed. If a red mark does not disappear after 20 to 30 minutes, notify your health care professional so adjustments can be made.

Safety

An AFO should always be worn with supportive shoes of adequate size to accommodate the brace. Regularly checkups ensure that your AFO still fits properly. Socks or stockings should always be worn under your AFO to help absorb sweat and decrease the chance of skin breakdown from the plastic rubbing against your skin.

References

• Podiatry Today: Selecting Appropriate AFOs
• USF Health: Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) Process Guide

Resources

• Foot & Ankle Center: Treating Dropfoot with Ankle-Foot Orthoses