What is Ankle Foot Orthosis? How to Look After Your AFO
An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) is a device that supports weak muscles while decreasing, preventing, or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot. They’re also utilized to keep joints aligned, adapt deformity, and help with spasticity relief, says the expert orthotist in Dubai. Accommodative orthoses and functional foot orthoses are the two primary forms […]
An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) is a device that supports weak muscles while decreasing, preventing, or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot. They’re also utilized to keep joints aligned, adapt deformity, and help with spasticity relief, says the expert orthotist in Dubai.
Accommodative orthoses and functional foot orthoses are the two primary forms of prescription foot orthoses that podiatrists prescribe for their patients.If a patient’s peripheral motor neuropathy is severe enough to cause foot drop, an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) may be recommended. For fitting, the ROM and structure of the foot and ankle are evaluated. The standard off-the-shelf AFO has a 90-degree bend at the ankle, presuming the patient can attain a neutral ankle position.
The AFO may not fit properly if the patient has muscular limitations or swelling that prevents dorsiflexion of the ankle to neutral, and if the patient additionally has peripheral sensory neuropathy, the AFO’s insults to the foot and ankle may not be experienced. A poorly fitted AFO may result in skin breakdown and sores. AFOs with ankle hinges that can be adjusted are available.
In children with cerebral palsy, ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly used to reduce the development of calf muscle contractures, increase dynamic gait efficiency, improve stance phase stability, and facilitate swing phase clearing.They come in a variety of styles and materials, and they can be tailored to the user’s needs and growth if they’re intended for youngsters. They’re composed of thermoformed plastic, which allows for customization and changes. In some cases[1, people with stroke, and other neurological diseases such as SCI and children with cerebral palsy, AFOs are used as night splints to prevent contractures.
How to Look After Your AFO
Wipe the AFO with a damp cloth and dry it with a towel or let it air dry. Do not immerse in water. Get the best consultation for foot orthotics in Dubai with us!