An AFO (ankle foot orthosis) is a brace worn over the ankle to reduce foot drop. There are several types, including the Ankle Leaf Spring AFO and the Posterior Leaf Spring AFO. Using an orthotic device that is custom made for your particular foot drop can be the right solution for your foot drop.
Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)
An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) corrects AFO for foot drop by holding the foot in the proper position. These devices are usually made of plastic and are worn in the ankle or on the foot. Often abbreviated as “AFOs”, they can be extremely effective at restoring a normal gait pattern.
Ankle-foot orthosis models have the capacity to generate power through a pneumatic system embedded in the foot component. The pneumatic system charges during the mid to late stance phase of each gait cycle. The pneumatic system drives a cam-lock mechanism that prevents plantarflexion of the foot during the swing phase. When a foot strikes the device, the actuator releases air through an exhaust port.
Multi podus boot
Multi podus boot (MPO) is a device used to correct deformities and foot drop. The boot floats the heel, improves circulation, and eliminates heel pressure. In addition, the boot allows for normal plantar and dorsiflexion during ambulation. The boot is compatible with most types of shoes.
It is made from soft plastic with a lining. It is designed to keep the ankle in a neutral position and can treat problems such as foot drop, heel spurs, and contractures. It can also be used for a variety of conditions, including hypersensitive toes and pressure sores. It also works well in patients with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Achilles tendonitis.
Ankle Leaf Spring AFO
There are two main types of ankle supports that can be used for foot drop. The Leaf Spring supports a person’s foot with a hinge that allows them to fully extend their legs, while the AFO Light supports the ankle with an open heel. Both of these supports are used to stabilize the foot and prevent foot drop.
Ankle Leaf Spring supports are lightweight, comfortable and easy to fit into shoes. They maintain the foot at a 90-degree angle to the leg and are ideal for patients with foot drop. They can also help with unwanted inward rotation of the foot, which can be present in Charcot-Marie Tooth and stroke patients.
Posterior Leaf Spring AFO
The Posterior Leaf Spring Ankle and Foot Orthosis is a lightweight, durable polypropylene orthosis that can be cut to shape. It prevents foot drop and is a useful aid after surgery. It comes in a full foot and a metatarsal head size, and it can be worn with or without shoes.
There are many different types of AFO available, and your physical therapist will recommend the one that best meets your needs. Some are made of carbon fiber, which is durable and lightweight. Others are made of a rigid material, like Ortholen. These devices wrap around the back of the calf, and provide stability and support to the foot.
Dorsiflexion Assist Functional AFO
The Dorsiflexion Assist AFO is an excellent option for people suffering from foot drop or ankle inversion. The streamlined design provides moderate lateral support and static dorsiflexion assistance. The trimmable footplate and open calf allow it to be fitted to any shoe. The Dorsiflexion Assist AFO is also very durable and easily adjusts to changing body size. These devices are also recommended for people with multiple sclerosis or injuries to the sciatic nerve.
The Dorsiflexion Assist AFO is a type of orthotic that uses a spring-like hinge to help the patient’s foot dorsiflex as it comes off the ground. This type of orthotic is best for patients with mild to moderate foot drop, as it provides a more natural gait pattern. However, it is not suitable for people with very high feet or for people weighing more than 225 pounds.