An AFO brace, or ankle-foot orthosis, is a custom-made brace that encompasses the foot, ankle, and leg, finishing just below the knee. It is made from high-temperature thermoplastic and is designed to combat a variety of factors, including muscle weakness, joint instability, and high muscle tone. AFOs are supplied with a variety of purposes in mind, including controlling alignment, increasing mobility and independence, assisting rehabilitation, and reducing pain. They are also provided with the intention of preventing deformity from occurring. AFOs can be hinged (made to bend at the ankle) or solid (no movement at the ankle) and fitted on either one or both legs, depending on the individuals needs.
AFOs are commonly prescribed for lower limb orthoses and are used to treat various musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. They can also be prescribed after ankle or foot surgeries to provide ideal support to weakened muscles and joints. Some of the conditions that AFOs can help treat include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, ALS, foot drop, and foot or ankle injury.
AFOs come in different shapes and sizes and can be very beneficial in numerous situations. They are mostly custom-made for each individual to ensure a proper fit. AFOs can be very helpful for kids who have hypertonia, as they keep legs in proper alignment, minimize spastic responses, and relieve some of the tone. There are two main designs of AFO orthotics: some of them have a hinge or a joint located at the ankle, allowing movement, while others are entirely fixed.
To receive an AFO, a valid referral is required, and both public and private referrals are accepted. Once a referral is gained, an appointment will be made for casting of the AFO. During this appointment, the clinician assesses the lower leg, and the patient may be asked to wear clothing that finishes at or above the knee or pants/skirts that can be rolled up above the knee. The AFO is custom-made at a laboratory, and the final adjustments are made during the delivery appointment.
In summary, an AFO brace is a custom-made brace that provides support to the foot, ankle, and leg, finishing just below the knee. It is designed to combat a variety of factors, including muscle weakness, joint instability, and high muscle tone, and is supplied with a variety of purposes in mind, including controlling alignment, increasing mobility and independence, assisting rehabilitation, and reducing pain. AFOs are commonly prescribed for lower limb orthoses...
