AFOs for foot and/or ankle support.
 

I recently got fitted for an AFO and I'm supposed to wear it daily for increasing amounts of time to get used to it, but it hurts.

I've already had it adjusted twice but was sent home to "wear it in". My next appointment isn't for 3 weeks but I have some questions to others with an AFO.

*If they're uncomfortable to start with, do you get used to them?

*If they hurt, do they stop hurting when you get used to wearing them, or is there something wrong with the one I have?

*If I can't wear it are there other options available to me?

if it is pinching your foot, then its not measured properly.

I find if I slide mine into a tube sock, that helps. it also helps if I wear high top shoes or boots with it. give it that extra security.

in the summer I sweat on mine, and that makes it worse. The tube sock really does help absorb the sweat, and give it a cushion.

I hope you get used to it.

Anne, if it causes pain just being on, it is ill-fitted and you should not let them bully you into "just dealing with it". Plastic does not 'break in', leather does.

If this is a pre-manufactured AFO, go back to your neuro and insist on an Rx for a fitted, custom one.

The process for mine was this: They cast my leg and ankle much like they do for a broken bone. The cast set and was sawed off. It was used as a mold for high-heat plastic setting. A couple days later, at my follow-up appointment, the PT spent a good bit of time checking ALL the contact points and custom installed the hardware & padding with additional fittings between each step.

Because I'm stubborn about socks in summer, the only discomfort it gives me is on my very bony ankle and at the ball of my foot after a lot of use.

For the skin contact issue, I line it with a bandana and that does the trick.

Thank you ladies.

The one they gave me is one of those prefabricated ones. I've tried thick socks, thin socks and no socks under it, but it still digs in at the back of my heel, and under the instep.

I do have a physio appointment later in the week so I'll get him to take a look at it. I hadn't thought of asking him, so thank you Nappy.

The woman at the orthotics place just said it was bound to be uncomfortable for a while, and come back in 3 weeks time. :rolleyes:

yep, digging is NOT what its supposed to do. That means its the WRONG size! make them replace it with one that fits better, or is special ordered to you.

Those things are not comfy on the best of days, but one that doesnt fit just wont fly.