Reasons for wearing an ankle foot orthosis

An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) is a brace that has been designed to provide extra support to aid mobility or to maintain the range of motion at the ankle joint. The AFO is prescribed specifically for one user, which means you should be the only one to wear it. The clinician will through how to wear the AFO and care for the device.

These instructions are to be followed carefully for treatment to be effective.

Fitting the AFO

It should always be worn over a thin pair of plain socks, preferably cotton. If you are helping someone else to put on an AFO, have them sit on a chair in front of you so you can support the leg.

  1. the heel must be put into the back of the AFO. This is easier if you first bend the knee to 90 degrees. Holding the heel down and back with your thumb, fasten the ankle strap over to hold this position, ensuring that the pad is sat in the centre
  2. tighten the calf strap securely. Following this, any other straps can be securely fastened ensuring all pads are correctly centrally located
  3. before using the AFO, check that the straps are secure but not too tight, and all pads haven’t slipped
  4. if the straps are loose or the heel isn’t all the way back in the AFO, it will not be comfortable to use and could rub on the skin
  5. fitting an AFO can take time. It's important not to rush and to make sure it will be safe and comfortable to use.