Are Ankle-Foot-Orthoses (AFO's) A Game Changer for Kids? A Parent's Guide to Understanding their Potential Impact

As parents, we always want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. When faced with the decision of whether to incorporate ankle-foot-orthoses (AFOs) into our child's treatment plan, it's essential to balance the benefits with the comfort, prefences, and goals of our little ones. Let's delve into the world of AFOs and discover how they could be a game-changer for kids.

The Basics of Ankle-Foot-Orthoses (AFOs)

Ankle-foot-orthoses, commonly referred to as AFOs, are shoe inserts. They can be solid, flexible, hinged, and range in heights and levels of support. They're larger than the "inner-sole" that a podiatrist might prescribe and their role is support and stability of the ankle and foot (and sometimes knee). These orthoses are helpful in children with conditions such as toe walking, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders that may affect their ability to walk and maintain proper alignment.

Are AFOs Right for Your Child?

Deciding whether AFOs are suitable requires a comprehensive gait (walking pattern) analysis which is usually done by slow-motion video. When used correctly, AFOs can aid in improving gait patterns, preventing falls, and promoting overall mobility. They are chosen to cater to your child's specific needs, ensuring a comfortable fit and optimal functionality.

Embracing the Potential Impact

Some reasons we might consider AFOs:

1. Persistent toe walking caused by habit, increased muscle tone, or muscle tightness (along with other treatments to address tightness)

2. Reduced toe clearance or "foot-drop" causing changes to walking, trips and falls.

3. Complex gait patterns like "crouch gait" for older kids with neurological or neuromuscular conditions,

Introducing AFOs into your child's routine may seem overwhelming at first, but the positive impact they can have is invaluable. These devices, once inside your child's shoes, can enhance their independence, boost their confidence, and make daily activities more manageable. With the right support and guidance, AFOs can open up new opportunities for your child to explore and engage with the world around them. While it may take some time to adjust to this new addition, the long-term benefits can be truly transformative for your child's quality of life.

Are There any Alternatives?

The power of the internet, globalisation, and temu (just kidding, I really should stop online ordering bargain home decor every week), has meant that accessing alternative products is easier than ever. Products like orthopaedic shoes and AFO-alternative shoes are being made in a huge range of styles and options. Whether these are an option will depend on severity and complexity of the problem.

Your physiotherapist will work with you to give you all the options and their benefits so your family can make a decision that leads to our big goals - to get kids enjoying a life of movement no matter their circumstances or extra needs. For this, AFOs can really be a game-changer.