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Content is anchored to trusted sources where available, but Compass has not yet been clinically reviewed. It provides general information rather than medical advice.

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Movement and daily function

AFO

Ankle foot orthosis

A light brace worn inside a shoe to hold the foot at a useful angle while walking.

What it means

Usually moulded plastic running under the foot and up the back of the calf. It holds the foot at an angle so the toes clear the ground. They can be made to measure or bought ready-made.

Why you might hear it

  • It is the word most often heard alongside foot drop.
  • An orthotist or physiotherapist fits and adjusts it.

People who may help

Where Compass goes into this

About this explanation

These are plain explanations of words you may come across, not advice about your own situation. Where a word matters to a decision, the question pages go into it properly, and your own team is the place to take it.