Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFO's)
Custom Ankle Foot Orthotics are personalised devices designed to support the foot and ankle, correct conditions, and improve overall function and mobility. They are tailored to each patient’s anatomical specifications and specific medical conditions, offering superior support compared to off-the-shelf options.
What Are Ankle Foot Orthotics?
Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFOs) are externally applied devices used to stabilise and align the foot and ankle, assist with the management of various conditions, and improve mobility. These orthotics can range from simple shoe inserts to more complex braces designed to control the position and motion of the ankle, supplement the strength of a weakened limb, or support foot and ankle conditions.
Benefits of Custom Ankle Foot Orthotics
- Enhanced Stability: Offers increased support to prevent falls and improve balance.
- Pain Relief: Reduces pain associated with chronic conditions such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and tendonitis.
- Improved Function: Assists with walking and other activities by providing better alignment and support.
- Personalized Fit: Custom-made to precisely match the contours of your foot and ankle, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
- Injury Prevention: Helps prevent the recurrence of injuries by stabilizing weak areas and providing additional support.
Conditions Treated with Ankle Foot Orthotics
Custom AFOs are beneficial for a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including:
- Ankle Instability: Providing external support to unstable ankles.
- Drop Foot: Assisting in lifting the foot during walking.
- Arthritis: Alleviating pain and providing support to arthritic joints.
- Post-Surgical Support: Assisting recovery and ensuring proper alignment following surgery.
- Cerebral Palsy
- Stroke
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
- Nerve Damage
- Neuropathy
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Recurrent Falls
Types of Ankle Foot Orthotics
There are several types of AFOs, each suited to different conditions and levels of support required:
- Solid AFOs: Provides maximum support by preventing movement in the ankle joint.
- Articulated AFOs: Allows controlled movement of the ankle joint for patients who need some degree of ankle motion.
- Dynamic AFOs: Typically used for patients with drop foot, assisting with foot clearance during walking.
- Carbon Fiber AFOs: Lightweight and strong, suitable for sports and active individuals seeking support without added weight.
Care and Maintenance of Ankle Foot Orthotics
To maintain the effectiveness and longevity of your custom AFOs:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the orthotics as instructed by your podiatrist to prevent odor and deterioration.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect regularly for signs of wear and damage, and schedule repairs or replacements as needed.
- Proper Use: Follow the guidelines provided by your podiatrist on how to wear and use the orthotics.
- Regular Follow-Ups: Attend follow-up appointments to ensure the orthotics are functioning as intended and make any necessary adjustments.
Custom Ankle Foot Orthotics are a crucial component in managing various foot and ankle conditions, providing tailored support that significantly improves mobility and reduces pain.
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or need support for an active lifestyle, our custom AFOs are designed to meet your specific needs.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 or book online.
Our Podiatrists
Our team of Sunshine Coast Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections, warts and more.
They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes.
Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.
Benefits of a personalised treatment plan
Reduced Pain
Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.
Increased Strength
With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.
Become More Active
Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.
How it works
1. Schedule an Appointment
Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.
2. We Handle the Details
Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.
3. Be More Active With Less Pain
Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.
What you'll get...
Experienced Podiatrists
Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.
Comprehensive Consultations
Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.
Communication
Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.
Best Treatment Technology
We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care.
On-site Manufacturing
Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.