Leaf Spring Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)

• Flexible leaf-spring AFO – Provides dorsiflexion assistance while allowing controlled ankle movement.
• Improved toe clearance – Helps lift the forefoot during swing phase where foot drop affects walking.
• Thermoplastic construction – Lightweight prefabricated design combining structural support with controlled flexibility.
• Full-length footplate – Sits beneath the foot inside suitable supportive footwear.
• Low-profile design – Slim construction intended to fit inside footwear with adequate internal depth.
• Separate left and right versions – Select the side corresponding to the affected leg.
• Four sizes available – Choose the appropriate size using the measurement guide.
• Latex free – Current product information states the device does not contain latex.

Indicated for mild to moderate flexible or flaccid foot drop where dorsiflexion assistance is required to improve forefoot clearance during walking.

May be suitable for selected neurological or muscular conditions where the ankle retains sufficient flexibility and stability for a leaf-spring AFO. Professional assessment is recommended where significant spasticity, fixed deformity or substantial ankle instability is present.

What is the Leaf Spring AFO suitable for?
It is designed for mild to moderate flexible or flaccid foot drop where assistance lifting the forefoot during walking is required.

How does a leaf-spring AFO work?
The flexible posterior section bends during walking and helps return the ankle towards dorsiflexion as the foot leaves the ground, assisting toe clearance during swing phase.

Is it more flexible than a rigid AFO?
Yes. A leaf-spring AFO allows more controlled ankle movement than a solid rigid AFO and is generally suited to people who do not require maximum ankle control.

Is it suitable for every type of foot drop?
No. It may not provide sufficient control where there is significant spasticity, fixed ankle deformity, severe ankle instability or substantial knee-control problems.

Do I need special footwear?
Not necessarily, but the shoe must have sufficient internal depth and width to accommodate the footplate and securely retain the heel. Loose or backless footwear is generally unsuitable.

How should the AFO fit?
The heel should sit fully into the brace and shoe, the calf section should sit securely around the lower leg and the footplate should not create concentrated pressure. Stop use and seek advice if persistent rubbing, pressure or skin irritation occurs.

Do I choose Left or Right?
Yes. Select the version corresponding to the affected leg.

Can the footplate be trimmed?
Minor professional adjustment may sometimes be possible depending on the device, but significant modification should be carried out by an appropriately trained clinician or orthotic professional.

Does the AFO cure foot drop?
No. It is an assistive orthosis designed to support walking; it does not treat the underlying neurological or muscular cause of foot drop.