A custom AFO (Ankle-Foot Orthosis) is a medical brace that's specially designed and moulded to fit your foot and lower leg. It's used to support, align, prevent, or correct problems in the ankle and foot.
KEY FEATURES
Unlike off-the-shelf braces, a custom AFO is made specifically for your anatomy, based on moulds or 3D scans taken by the podiatrist.
A podiatrist evaluates your gait, alignment, muscle strength, and condition before prescribing it.
Typically made of plastic, carbon fibre, or a combination of materials, often padded for comfort.
WHAT CONDITIONS ARE A CUSTOM AFO USED FOR?
FOOT DROP
When the front of the foot doesn’t lift properly, often causing toes to drag while walking. A podiatrist can help with assessment, support devices, and treatment options to improve safety and mobility.
ANKLE INSTABILITY
Provides stability and support for weakened ankles, reducing the risk of sprains and improving confidence when walking. By guiding proper alignment and limiting excess movement, AFOs make everyday activities safer and more comfortable.
POST-SURGICAL RECOVERY
Custom AFOs support recovery after foot or ankle surgery by providing stability, reducing strain, and guiding alignment. They help protect healing structures while restoring safe, confident movement during rehabilitation.
FLATFOOT / OVER-PRONATION
Provide strong support and alignment for people with flat feet or over-pronation. By stabilising the ankle and correcting foot posture, a custom AFO can reduce pain, improve mobility, and help prevent long-term strain on the knees, hips, and lower back.
C.P, M.S OR STROKE-RELATED GAIT ISSUES
AFOs provide support for people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or stroke-related gait issues. They improve stability, alignment, and walking efficiency, helping reduce fatigue, lower fall risk, and support greater independence.
ARTHRITIS or CHARCOT FOOT
For people living with arthritis or Charcot foot, custom AFOs can provide vital support. Helps stabilise weakened joints, reduce pain, and protect the foot from further damage, making daily movement safer and more comfortable.
At Whitsunday Family Podiatry, we offer different types of custom Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs) to suit individual needs. A Rigid AFO holds the ankle in a fixed position, making it ideal for severe instability, while an Articulated AFO includes a hinge to allow controlled ankle movement, providing greater flexibility and comfort during daily activities.
THE PROCESS
Assessment
The podiatrist examines your condition and gait.
Casting or Scanning
Your foot and leg are cast or digitally scanned.
Fabrication
A lab creates the custom AFO to exact specs.
Fitting
The podiatrist checks the fit and function, and makes adjustments.
GET IN TOUCH
If you have questions or would like to book an Ankle-Foot Orthosis assessment, please complete the contact form below or alternatively call the clinic on 0457 955 433.