AFO/MAFO INSTRUCTIONS
You have just received or have been using our Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO). The purpose for wearing this device can fall into one or all of the following.
- Prevention of foot drop.
- Stabilize your ankle joint to prevent further arthritic changes to your foot and ankle.
- Prevent heel cord tightness.
Donning the AFO
It is very important to apply the AFO in a proper fashion. This will allow the device to be used to its fullest potential providing the greatest benefit and comfort.
- Select proper socks. The socks should extend above the length of the AFO so that the device doesn’t come in direct contact with the skin.
- Socks should be close fitting and wrinkle free.
- Select a proper shoe. The shoe should be large enough to accommodate the device. In most cases a cross trainer type sneaker or good walking shoe work best. Avoid shoes with high heels as they can throw you off balance. If necessary remove the insole from the shoe for added room inside the shoe. You may need a ½ size bigger shoe to accommodate the AFO.
- Insert the AFO into your shoe first and make sure the laces or Velcro straps on the shoe are loose.
- In a sitting position and while bending your knee slightly insert your foot into the shoe and AFO. Push the heel all the way down into the brace.
- Tighten the shoe while your knee is 90 degree bend. The close all Velcro straps on the brace (your brace may only have one strap)
Use / Skin care
It is important to keep a close eye on your skin condition. Sometimes problems and discomfort with the use of the AFO can be avoided if good skin care is practiced.
- Gradually increase the wearing time of your AFO starting with one hour on the first day, then increase the wearing time each consecutive day.
- Check for red marks on your skin, if redness persists after removing the brace for more than 15 minutes contact us for an adjustment of the brace. Don’t use the brace until it has been adjusted by us to improve the fit.
Care of the AFO
Wash your AFO after each day of use with a damp cloth and wipe out all dust and debris that may collect inside your brace. If you notice any scratches s or fractures on the brace please contact us for a repair of your device. If your brace has hinges let us know if you notice loose screws or grinding sounds.
Please don’t attempt to modify or alter the brace in any way as it will void the warranty of your brace. Let us adjust the brace for you so we can guarantee your brace is functioning properly.
Follow up
A follow up should be scheduled at least 6 month after you received your AFO. If problems develop sooner call our office immediately.