ORTHOSES-ANKLE FOOT ORTHOSES (AFO)
SUMMARY
1. Extensor posturing (hip and knee extension and ankle plantar flexion) may occur during the stance phase.
2. To facilitate swing phase of gait an AFO may be used to compensate for excessive ankle plantar flexion and lack of knee flexion.
3. An AFO set in 5o of dorsiflexion will not only help to clear the foot but will make it more difficult for patient to hyperextend the knee.
4. There is limited evidence that an AFO when combined with posterior tibial nerve denervation, improves gait outcomes in hemiplegic patients. There is limited evidence AFOs improve various parameters of gait.
Reference(s)
Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.
