Guidelines For Wearing And Caring For Your Ankle-Foot Orthosis
General Information
Your custom designed Ankle-Foot Orthosis (AFO) will help correct
and maintain the proper alignment and position of your ankle and
foot. Ankle and foot alignment is vital for balancing and distributing
your body weight. Your AFO will help correct mild to moderate foot
problems and reduce associated pain. You may experience slight discomfort
as you adjust to the new orthosis and proper alignment position.
The adjustment period normally ranges from one to six weeks.
The
following wearing and care guidelines will help you be as comfortable
as possible during this time.
Wearing Guidelines
Wear Time
Unless otherwise instructed by your orthotist, start slowly. Adjusting
to a new AFO is like breaking in a new pair of shoes. Wear your
orthosis one hour on the first day and limit yourself to low or
moderate activities. Gradually increase your wearing time by one
to two hours each day. You should also increase your activity level
during this transition period. Soon you will be comfortable wearing
your AFO all day. You will achieve the greatest long-term benefits
when you consistently wear your orthosis every day.
Pain
Remove your AFO if you experience any pain or discomfort. Check your
skin for areas of irritation. Some pinkness is expected in areas
of maximum correction or support. However, redness should disappear
within 20 minutes after the orthosis is removed. Try wearing the
orthosis again after waiting for one or two hours. If you feel sharp,
or jabbing pressure over bony areas, or if skin redness lasts longer
than 20 minutes, make an appointment with your orthotist at SCOPe
for an adjustment as soon as possible.
Skin Care
Wash your legs and feet every day with mild soap and warm water.
Make sure to clean well between your toes and the bottoms of your
feet where bacteria collects. Rinse your skin well with clean water.
Towel dry your skin thoroughly. The best time to wash is at night
before bedtime. Your skin will be fresh and dry in the morning.
Wearing
a cotton sock or stocking (which is a little higher than the top
of your orthosis) under your AFO will help reduce friction
and keep your skin dry. During hot and humid weather, sprinkle
a little baby powder on your legs and feet before putting on the
socks.
You may also wish to change socks a few times during the day. These
simple tips will help minimize perspiration. Check your leg, ankle
and foot carefully every day for any red or tender areas. Such
areas could indicate that your shoes do not fit properly, or your
AFO needs
an adjustment.
Shoes
Select good shoes with proper support. Always try them on with
the AFO to make sure you have the most comfortable fit possible.
The
best shoes feature a closed back and closed toe; fitting over the
feet like laced-up sport shoes. Choose low heels and shoes that
are slightly wider to accommodate the AFO. You may notice knee
or back
pain if the heel height is incorrect. Your shoes must be laced
snugly to hold your foot securely in place.
Care
Your new orthosis is made from state-of-the-art materials. With
typical moderate use and proper care, your new AFO should last
more than
one year. Clean your AFO whenever it becomes dirty, or has an
unpleasant odor. Wipe with a damp cloth. If odor persists, you
can use water
and mild soap. Do not soak it in water. Be sure to rinse well
to eliminate unwanted soap residue. Allow the AFO to dry at room
temperature.
Direct heat can damage your AFO. Do not use a hair dryer, or
place it near a heater.
Remember...
Never attempt to repair, or adjust your AFO yourself. Your orthotist
will schedule periodic visits to make sure your AFO is working
properly. Contact your nearest SCOPe patient care facility whenever
you need
help or have any questions. Your SCOPe practitioner will work
closely with you and your physician to ensure the best orthotic
treatment
possible
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