Ankle Foot Orthosis: Benefits, Types, and How to Choose the Right AFO

Walking is something many people take for granted. But when a person struggles to lift their foot or keep their ankle steady, walking becomes difficult. This is where an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) can help. An AFO is a support that goes around the lower leg and foot to improve how someone walks. It also provides strength, balance, and comfort.

Whether someone has had a stroke, lives with cerebral palsy, or has another condition affecting the lower leg, the right AFO can make a big difference.

What Is an Ankle Foot Orthosis?

An AFO is a brace designed to support the ankle and foot. It is worn inside a shoe and often wraps around the calf, ankle, and foot. Most AFOs are made from plastic or carbon fibre, but some may also include metal or fabric straps.

People wear AFOs to help with walking problems caused by weak muscles, poor coordination, or joint issues. They are commonly used for:

• Foot drop (when the front of the foot drags on the ground)

• Muscle weakness in the ankle or foot

• Joint instability

• Nerve damage

• Abnormal walking patterns

Why People Use an AFO

Helps with Walking

The main purpose of an AFO is to help people walk better. It holds the foot in a proper position and supports the ankle during walking. This allows the foot to clear the ground and land safely with each step.

Improves Safety

When someone drags their foot or their ankle tends to roll, they are at greater risk of falling. AFOs keep the foot and ankle steady, which makes walking safer.

Reduces Pain

Poor foot and ankle alignment can lead to pain in the knees, hips, or back. An AFO supports proper posture and reduces pressure on joints.

Boosts Confidence

When walking is easier and safer, people feel more confident. This can lead to more movement, better health, and greater independence.

Supports Healing and Protection

After surgery or injury, some people need to protect the ankle or limit movement. An AFO can help the healing process and prevent further injury.

Types of AFOs

There are several types of AFOs. The choice depends on the condition, the strength of the muscles, and the level of support needed.

Solid AFO

A solid AFO does not allow the ankle to move. It is stiff and holds the foot and ankle in one position. This type is best for people who have no control over their ankle or need strong support to prevent the foot from collapsing.

Best for:

• Severe foot drop

• Total loss of ankle control

• Muscle tone problems (e.g., spasticity)

Hinged AFO

This AFO includes a hinge at the ankle. It allows the foot to move up and down but blocks movement from side to side. A hinged AFO supports walking while giving more freedom at the ankle.

Best for:

• Moderate weakness

• When ankle movement helps walking

• Conditions like cerebral palsy

Posterior Leaf Spring AFO

This is a thin, flexible AFO shaped like a leaf. It bends slightly when stepping and helps lift the foot as the leg swings forward. It is very light and often used for mild foot drop.

Best for:

• Mild foot drop

• People with low muscle strength

• Children or adults with early-stage weakness

Ground Reaction AFO

This AFO helps with weakness in the knee and thigh as well as the ankle. It creates a pushing force against the ground to keep the knee straight when stepping. This can help prevent the knee from buckling.

Best for:

• Weak quadriceps

• Post-stroke walking issues

• Certain muscle disorders

Carbon Fibre AFO

Carbon fibre AFOs are strong but lightweight. They store energy and release it during walking, which helps create a more natural step. They are often chosen by active users who walk long distances or move quickly.

Best for:

• Active lifestyle

• Sports or longer walks

• Mild to moderate foot drop

Custom vs Off-the-Shelf AFOs

Some AFOs are custom-made to match the shape of your leg and foot. These offer the best fit and support. Off-the-shelf AFOs come in set sizes and may be adjusted slightly to fit better.

Custom AFOs:

• Made from a mould or scan

• Better for unusual leg shapes or sensitive skin

• Often needed for long-term use

Off-the-shelf AFOs:

• Faster to obtain

• Often cheaper

• Suitable for short-term needs or early trials

How to Choose the Right AFO

Choosing the right AFO depends on several factors. A physiotherapist or orthotist will assess your walking, foot shape, and strength before making a recommendation. But it helps to understand what to consider.

Your Medical Condition

Different conditions need different supports. A stroke survivor might need firm support, while someone with mild nerve damage might need only light help.

Your Muscle Strength

If you have no ankle strength, you will likely need a solid AFO. If you have some strength, a hinged or flexible option may be enough.

Your Lifestyle

Think about how much you walk, what kind of shoes you wear, and what surfaces you walk on. Active people often need lightweight, durable braces.

Shoe Fit

AFOs work best with the right shoes. You may need shoes with removable insoles, wide openings, or extra depth. Always bring your shoes when being fitted for an AFO.

Comfort and Weight

Comfort is key. The AFO should not rub, press too hard, or cause blisters. Lightweight materials help reduce fatigue.

Skin and Sensitivity

If you have fragile skin or diabetes, your AFO must not cause pressure points. A custom AFO with soft padding is usually best in these cases.

Getting Used to an AFO

Most people need a short period to get used to wearing an AFO. Here are some tips to make it easier:

• Start wearing it for short periods, then increase the time slowly

• Check your skin often. Look for red marks or rubbing

• Always wear socks to avoid skin issues

• Let your therapist know if it feels too tight, too loose, or causes pain

• Practise walking on different surfaces with support at first

Your physiotherapist may give you exercises to help your body adjust to walking with the AFO.

Looking After Your AFO

AFOs need regular care to last longer and remain safe for use.

Cleaning:

• Wipe with a damp cloth

• Avoid soaking in water or using strong cleaners

Storage:

• Keep it away from heat

• Store in a cool, dry place

Maintenance:

• Check for cracks, loose straps, or worn padding

• If something feels off, see your orthotist straight away

When to Replace Your AFO

AFOs do not last forever. Children may outgrow them quickly. Adults may need new ones every few years, depending on wear and tear. Replace your AFO if:

• It no longer fits

• It causes pain or skin problems

• You notice a change in your walking

• The material becomes worn or damaged

Final Thoughts

Ankle Foot Orthosis can be life-changing. They help with walking, improve safety, ease pain, and build confidence. The right AFO supports not only your foot and ankle but also contributes to better overall posture and movement.

There are many types to choose from, and each serves a different need. Whether you need strong support or just a little help lifting your foot, there is an AFO for you.

Work closely with your healthcare team. Be patient as you adjust to your new brace. With the right support, you can enjoy walking again—safely and comfortably.

At Lifeforce Limbs and Rehab Pte Ltd, we provide custom and ready-made AFOs designed to suit your lifestyle and condition. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step, from fitting to follow-up care.