Are red marks from an AFO normal?
Mild temporary pressure marks can occur with a close-fitting orthosis, but they should begin to fade after the brace is removed.
Follow the skin-check guidance supplied with the device and request review if marks persist, become painful or worsen.
Why does an AFO rub?
Common causes include poor heel position, a wrinkled sock, loose footwear, pressure over ankle bones, incorrect strap tension or a brace that is not the right shape or size.
What should you do when a brace rubs?
Sit down, remove the brace and inspect the skin.
Refit it from the beginning rather than covering the problem with extra padding or simply tightening the straps.
Why does a foot drop brace slip down?
Slipping can occur when the heel is not fully seated, straps are loose or twisted, footwear is not secure, the brace is the wrong size or clothing interferes with the fit.
Can straps be too tight and still allow movement?
Yes. Overtightening one area can distort the position of the brace without solving the underlying fit problem.
It can also create unnecessary pressure and numbness.
Why does the heel lift inside an AFO?
The heel may lift if it was not seated fully during fitting, the shoe is too loose, the ankle cannot reach the position built into the AFO, or the brace or footplate does not match the foot correctly.
How do you refit the heel?
Sit down, loosen the shoe and brace as required, guide the heel fully backwards and downwards, then refasten the system gradually.
Confirm the heel stays seated during a short walk.
Can footwear cause heel lift?
Yes. A shoe that is too loose, too long, too shallow or unable to fasten securely can allow the foot and brace to move together.
Why do the toes still catch while wearing a foot drop brace?
Continued toe catching can mean the brace is incorrectly positioned, the lifting strap has insufficient tension, the heel is moving, the elastic component is worn or the brace does not provide enough control for the person's gait.
Does continued toe catching mean the brace has failed?
Not always. A fitting or footwear problem may be correctable.
However, repeated catching despite correct fitting needs review because the walking pattern or clinical presentation may require a different device.
Can a textile lifting strap be too loose?
Yes. Insufficient tension may fail to lift the forefoot adequately.
The strap should be adjusted only within the product instructions and should not pull the foot into an uncomfortable or unstable position.
Can a lifting strap be too tight?
Yes. Excessive tension can create pressure, alter ankle position or pull the foot unevenly.
Can the brace be the wrong side or size?
Yes. Check left/right orientation, size markings and the product instructions before making further adjustments.
Can clothing make a brace move?
Tight trousers or fabric catching on straps can displace the brace during sitting and walking.
Can worn components cause problems?
Yes. Stretched elastic, worn hook-and-loop fastening, damaged straps or a deformed brace can reduce control and stability.
Troubleshooting order: sit down, check the skin, refit the heel, smooth the sock, check straps, confirm secure footwear and then test a short walk. Do not use excessive tension as a substitute for correct fit.
When should the brace be professionally reviewed?
Arrange review if rubbing or red marks persist, the brace repeatedly slips, the heel will not stay seated, the toes continue to catch or walking has become less safe.
