Ankle foot orthoses
An Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a specialist type of brace which acts around the foot and ankle to restrict motion or provide support to the joint. AFOs can be rigid and fabricated from materials such as thermoplastics and carbon fibre or soft and made from more flexible materials like silicone. AFOs work primarily by helping to position the foot during lying, sitting, walking or by avoiding tripping or painful movements.
What can an AFO be used to treat?
Leeds Orthotics can provide AFOs to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Drop foot
- Foot slap
- Arthritis
- Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus)
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Motor Neurone Disease
- Ehlers-danlos syndrome
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Cerebral palsy
- Difficulties following stroke
- Control of spasticity in lower legs
- Improve or prevent deformity
- To aid recovery and rehabilitation following injury
- Alteration of gait and improvement in balance
- Any condition where stabilising the ankle joint is beneficial
Who would an AFO be suitable for?
Whether you are an adult, child, diabetic, elderly or an athlete we will be able to accommodate your AFO needs. Leeds Orthotics will work with you to select the most suitable and effective AFO.
How do you wear an AFO?
An AFO is worn around the shin and foot and encompasses the ankle and can usually be accommodated by your own footwear. There are usually one or more straps that can be fastened around the front of the leg to secure the AFO. Leeds Orthotics have excess to every single AFO on the market. Your condition will determine which AFO your orthotist will advise for you.
Will I need specialist shoes?
AFOs can usually be fitted into a patient’s normal footwear, and most varieties of AFO don’t require any modification to existing shoes. Sometimes the footplate can be made shorter to allow the orthosis to better fit into a wider range of footwear, and most trainers will be suitable for wearing with an AFO. Generally, most shoes with laces that reach down towards the toes will be able to accommodate an AFO. Sometimes the manufacturer’s insole of the shoe can be removed to make extra space for the orthosis.
What is the process for a patient to receive an AFO?
There are normally three appointments required to provide an AFO.
- 1. Consultation/ Measuring (including casting or scanning)
- 2. Fitting
- 3. Review (normally after 3 months)
How long will I need to wear the orthosis?
The period of time an individual would need to wear an AFO very much depends on the original reason for requiring the device. Some individuals wear an AFO for short period of time during rehab or after injury, others may wear the device every day for their entire lives. It is common to provide more than one AFO for patients wanting to carry out activities such as cycling, running and swimming. Your orthotist will set out clear instructions that are individualised for you depending on your condition, treatment plan and goals. This will include how long to wear the AFO for, when to wear the AFO, plus how to care for your AFO.
To arrange an appointment call Leeds Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@leedsorthotics.co.uk