AFO (Ankle-Foot Orthosis)

5 Best Foot Drop Braces

Also known as an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), a foot drop brace is a medical device designed to help people who suffer from a condition called “foot drop or “drop foot.” Typically worn on the lower leg, the drop foot brace keeps the ankle and foot from inverting and dropping and helps individuals to walk more naturally. 

Foot drop makes it difficult to raise the front portion of the foot, a movement known as dorsiflexion. This condition can cause the foot to “drop” or drag while walking and increases the risk of trips and falls. 

Those who suffer from drop foot often exhibit a high steppage gait pattern, raising the thigh excessively when walking as though climbing stairs to allow their foot to clear the ground. Some individuals choose to swing their affected leg out to the side with every step to avoid dragging their toes. However, these walking patterns do not address the actual cause of foot drop but rather cause further complications, such as chronic pain, numbness, and fatigue.

Drop foot can result from conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis accessories, muscular dystrophy, or lower leg nerve injury. Drop foot can be temporary or permanent and can affect one or both feet.

How does a Drop Foot Brace help correct poor walking gait?

For people with foot drop, walking tends to be a little tricky. So, doctors and therapists often recommend wearing an AFO brace to make walking easier and safer.

An AFO brace supports the ankle and keeps the foot in its natural position with toes aligned with the rest of the foot, rather than allowing them to drag. This helps prevent the development of abnormal gait patterns and increases safety when walking.

AFO braces allow those suffering from foot drop to enjoy the activities they love and significantly improve their quality of life. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor before choosing an AFO brace suitable for your needs. 

5 Best Braces for Foot Drop

How to choose the Best Foot Drop Brace?

Your doctor or physical therapist can guide you in choosing the right AFO brace for your specific condition. Here are some points to consider:

Style and design 

• A solid AFO is perfect for patients who have unstable knees and loss of strength or motion. This AFO stops plantarflexion and dorsiflexion and helps stabilize the ankle and foot while walking. It can be a little bulkier but provides a superior amount of control.
• Hinged AFO braces allow some ankle flexion. Posterior leaf spring AFO is ideal for patients with knee instability along with foot drop issues.
• Material: AFO braces for foot drop are made from various materials, like nylon, neoprene, foam, and composite plastics. Nylon and neoprene are lightweight and provide more flexibility while foam braces offer better comfort. An AFO made of durable and comfortable material will last a long time and will not cause skin breakdown.
• Custom-made or prefabricated: Custom-made drop foot braces fit your specific needs and body structure. Prefabricated options are appropriate for temporary foot drop conditions.
• Discretion: Some AFOs can be discreetly worn inside the shoes to keep them hidden.
• Breathability: AFO braces can trap heat and make ankles and feet hot and sweaty. For extended wearing time, choose one made of a breathable material to prevent heat build-up and skin damage.

Where to buy AFO Braces for Foot Drop?

HPFY is your one-stop shop for quality medical supplies and health products. We carry a vast selection of AFO braces from top manufacturers like Trulife, Ossur, Deroyal, and more. Visit our website to check out our complete line!

 

 

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