Ankle Foot Orthosis - Types, Benefits, Indications, and Drawbacks

What Is Ankle Foot Orthosis?

A specialized device, such as a brace or splint, is designed to be worn on the leg from below the knee down to the foot. It provides support and stability to the joints present around the ankle and foot.

What Are the Indications of Ankle Foot Orthosis?

Ankle foot orthosis (AFO) is used for a variety of conditions, including:

• Foot Drop : Foot drop or drop foot is a condition that is identified by an individual's incapacity to raise the front portion of their foot. It may occur as a result of nerve damage or compression that affects the muscles responsible for this action. Moreover, foot drops may be indicative of diverse underlying medical conditions, including nerve injuries, neurological disorders, or muscle disorders.
• Cerebral Palsy : This brain disorder impacts an individual's capability to control their movements and uphold balance and posture. It is the most frequently occurring motor disability during childhood. It results from abnormal brain development or harm to the developing brain, interfering with a person's ability to govern their muscles. AFOs are commonly used for children with cerebral palsy to support and control the foot and ankle joints, improve walking patterns, and prevent falls.
• Stroke : A stroke (brain attack) happens when a section of the brain is deprived of blood supply due to a blockage or when a blood vessel ruptures within the brain. This leads to the destruction or death of brain cells. AFOs improve walking patterns and prevent falls in such cases.
• Multiple Sclerosis : It is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects the CNS (central nervous system) which includes the spinal cord, brain, and optic nerves. Foot drop is a common symptom associated with this condition.
• Spinal Cord Injury : AFOs are commonly used for patients with a spinal cord injury to provide support and control to the foot and ankle joint and improve walking.
• Peripheral Neuropathy : It is a disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system (PNS), including all the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Damage or improper functioning of the nerves, causes them to be unable to transmit signals from the brain to the rest of the body, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected areas. AFOs are commonly used for patients with peripheral neuropathy to improve walking patterns and prevent falls.

What Are the Types of Ankle Foot Orthosis?

Several types of ankle foot orthosis are available, and the chosen type will depend on the condition and severity of the patient's symptoms. However, the following are the most common types of ankle foot orthosis (AFO):

• Solid Ankle Foot Orthosis : This type is made of a rigid material and provides maximum support and stability to the ankle and foot joints. Solid AFOs are typically used for patients with severe neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis.
• Articulated Ankle Foot Orthosis : This type of AFO is made of a flexible material and provides moderate support and control to the ankle and foot joints. Articulated AFOs are typically used for patients with mild to moderate neurological disorders or post-stroke.
• Posterior Leaf Spring Ankle Foot Orthosis : This type of AFO is made of a flexible material and provides minimal support and control to the ankle and foot joints. Posterior Leaf Spring AFOs are typically used for patients with mild foot drop or post-stroke.
• Dynamic Ankle Foot Orthosis : This type of AFO is designed to assist the ankle and foot joints during walking. Dynamic AFOs are typically used for patients with muscle weakness or paralysis in the foot or ankle.

Based on the material used:

• Plastic Ankle Foot Orthosis : These are the most common type of AFO and are made of thermoplastic materials. They are lightweight, durable, and can be easily customized to fit the shape of the patient's foot and ankle.
• Metal Ankle Foot Orthosis : These are AFOs made of metal, usually aluminum or stainless steel. They are typically used for patients who require greater stability and support due to more severe foot and ankle conditions.
• Carbon Fiber Ankle Foot Orthosis : These are AFOs made of carbon fiber materials, which offer excellent strength and durability while being lightweight. They are often used for patients who require a higher level of support but do not want the bulkiness of a plastic or metal AFO.
• Hybrid Ankle Foot Orthosis : These are orthotic devices that use a combination of two or more materials to accomplish a particular set of objectives. A hybrid AFO might use a carbon fiber shell for strength and durability and foam padding for comfort and pressure relief.

What Are the Benefits of Ankle Foot Orthosis?

Ankle foot orthosis (AFO) has several benefits for patients with neurological disorders, including:

• Improves Walking Patterns : AFOs help to improve walking patterns by providing support and control to the foot and ankle joints.
• Reduces Pain and Discomfort : AFOs reduce pain in the foot, ankle, and lower leg by providing support and control to the joint and preventing abnormal movements.
• Reduces Fall Risk : AFOs help prevent falls by providing support and stability to the foot and ankle joints.
• Reduces the Risk of Ankle Sprains : AFOs reduce ankle sprains by providing enough support and control to the foot and ankle joint. It has the ability to prevent the foot from turning outward or inward.
• Become More Independent : AFOs increase patient independence by improving their walking ability and reducing their reliance on mobility aids such as crutches or walkers.
• Improves Quality of Life : AFOs help patients perform daily living activities more easily, such as walking, standing, and climbing stairs. This can lead to an overall improvement in their quality of life.
• Customizable: These devices can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.

What Are the Drawbacks of Ankle Foot Orthosis?

AFOs are generally considered safe and effective. However, certain drawbacks and risks associated with their use include:

• Skin Irritation : AFOs can cause skin irritation or pressure sores if not properly fitted or worn for extended periods.
• Muscle Atrophy : Prolonged use of AFOs can cause muscle atrophy, weakening, or losing muscle tissue due to lack of use.
• Decreased Range of Motion : The use of AFOs can limit mobility in the foot and ankle joints, leading to stiffness and reduced flexibility.
• Discomfort : AFOs can be uncomfortable to wear, especially during the initial adjustment period.

Conclusion:

The duration of ankle foot orthosis use varies depending on the individual's needs and treatment goals. Follow the recommendations of a healthcare professional regarding orthosis use to ensure maximum benefit and minimize the risk of complications. Ankle foot orthosis can improve the quality of life for individuals with various conditions affecting the lower limbs. However, the effectiveness of AFOs also depends on the individual's compliance with wearing the device.