Ankle Foot Orthoses
AFOs/Drop Foot Splints can be needed when you need additional control of your foot. Typically, but not always, your foot may slap or you may trip over your toes. The foot drop could be a result of a leg or foot injury, a condition that affects your muscles and nerves for example Multiple Sclerosis or as as a result of a brain injury or Stroke.
There are many options of supports available over a wide price range from Polypropylene AFOs, Carbon Fibre AFOs, Lycra Foot Sleeves and Silicone AFOs as well as simple elasticated pull up styles. To get the best outcome your AFO needs to be the right prescription ensuring it controls unwanted movement, improves your overall movement patterns and therefore overall function. It is also important both the Swing phase and Stance phase of your walking is assessed.
Sometimes AFOs are only needed for a short period of time whilst either further investigations are carried out, or when the damage is not permanent and improving over time. Also for some people the physical appearance of an AFO can be as important or even more important than the functional gains it can give. I can understand this and will be able to talk you through all options depending on your needs and wants.
When you begin to use an AFO you will find it demands different muscles to activate during walking and for some of the splints if you wanted to trial one for a session within a safe environment, with no obligation then this can sometimes be arranged at clinic.
