A definition for Ankle Foot Orthosis can cover a great deal of material: ankle foot orthotic, ankle foot orthosis, ankle foot orthotics. It is commonly used to indicate an insert to put into the shoe to support the foot and modify compression or it can be a modest polyprophlene shaped support that is “L” shaped and that normally fits in the shoe.

Custom designed AFO helps correct as well as maintain the proper position and alignment of the ankle and foot. Foot and ankle alignment is essential for balancing as well as the distributing of the body weight. The AFO will help correct any moderate or mild problem of the foot and decrease any associated pain. The patient may have some slight discomfort as there is an adjustment period to the new AFO and proper position for alignment. The adjustment period usually ranges from 1 to 6 weeks.