What is an AFO?
The AFO is an orthopedic device designed to keep the foot in an upright position(1-2) when walking. It aims to compensate for a weakness in the levator muscles of the foot, responsible for the dorsal flexion of the ankle. When these muscles are malfunctioning, the foot tends to "fall" forward, making it difficult to walk.
Depending on the model, the AFO can be flexible or stiffer. Its main purpose is functional: to facilitate the progression of the step, to make walking safer and to improve comfort on a daily basis (1-2-5-6).
When to use an AFO?
The AFO is generally indicated in the case of foot drop, a situation frequently linked to neurological or muscular damage. This can occur after a stroke, peripheral nerve damage, herniated disc, multiple sclerosis or certain neuromuscular pathologies.
What are the benefits of the AFO on a daily basis?
The main advantage of the AFO is to reduce the risk of falling(5) by preventing the front of the foot from hitting the ground. It also improves the quality of walking(3), by promoting a more natural and less tiring step.
By making it easier to move around, this orthosis also helps to preserve autonomy and confidence(6) in daily activities.
How long can you wear an AFO?
The length of time you wear an AFO varies depending on each person's situation. It can be worn only when traveling, or more regularly during the day, depending on the level of muscle weakness and medical recommendations. Monitoring by a health professional is essential to adapt use over time.
Can you wear an AFO with any shoes?
Not all AFOs are compatible with all shoes. They require closed-toe shoes that are wide and stable enough to ensure good support and optimal comfort.
It is important to check the compatibility of the device with your usual footwear to avoid pressure points or discomfort when walking.
What are the risks or limits of the AFO?
The AFO is a functional aid, but it does not treat the cause of muscle weakness. Wearing it incorrectly can lead to chafing, pain or discomfort in the ankle or foot.
The AFO is often part of a global care, including physiotherapy, specific exercises and medical follow-up.
How to properly put on and adjust an AFO?
To be effective, the AFO must be correctly positioned to keep the foot raised without causing excessive compression. The tightening of the strap must be sufficient to accompany the movement, while remaining comfortable.
An initial adjustment with a health professional is strongly recommended.
Maintenance and durability
Rigid components : wash with a damp cloth for the rigid part.
Textile components : if fully removable textile part for washing. Machine washable at 30°C (gentle cycle). Remove hook-and-loop fasteners before washing. Do not use detergents, fabric softeners or aggressive products (chlorinated products, etc.). Do not dry clean. Do not use a tumble dryer. Do not iron. Squeeze out. Dry flat. Dry away from a direct source of heat (radiator, sun, etc.).
Sources :
Francois Bethoux and al. “The Effects of Peroneal Nerve Functional Electrical Stimulation Versus Ankle-Foot Orthosis in Patients With Chronic Stroke: A Randomized ControlledTrial” Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair 2014, Vol. 28(7) 688–697 © The Author(s) 2014
DCM de Wit, JH Buurke, JMM Nijlant, MJ IJzerman and HJ Hermens “The effect of an ankle-foot orthosis on walking ability in chronic stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial”Clinical Rehabilitation 2004; 18: 550-557
Internal CE marking data
Trimming allows to adapt the brace to the anatomy of the patients and to position it correctly in order to take into consideration the anatomical areas
Pongpipatpaiboon, Kannit, mukaino, Masahiko, Matsuda, Fumihiro, et al. “The impact of ankle–foot orthoses on toe clearance strategy in hemiparetic gait: a cross-sectional study.” Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 2018, vol. 15, p. 1-12
Diana Rimaud and al. “Effects of carbon versus plastic ankle foot orthosis on gait outcomes and energy cost in patients with chronic stroke” J Rehabil Med Aug23, 2024; 56: jrm35213. DOI: 10.2340/jrm.v56.35213
