Wear & Care

Your ankle foot orthosis (AFO) has been custom-designed and handcrafted to meet your unique ankle and foot needs. By following a few simple guidelines, you can extend the life of your AFO and ensure that it continues to provide effective therapy for years to come.

Initial Wear

• It may take a brief period of time before the AFO feels natural
• A proper fitting AFO exerts a firm, steady pressure against the skin
• After 1-2 hours of initial wear, remove your sock and AFO and inspect the skin for any redness. If redness persists after 30 minutes, continue to monitor as an area of concern
• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if any of the following occur: sharp or stabbing pain, prolonged swelling, bruises, calluses or blisters

Cleaning and Care

• Any skin covered by the orthosis, including the bottom of the foot and between the toes, should be washed daily with mild soap and warm water. Be sure to rinse off all soap and lather
• Your AFO may be hand washed with mild soap and water or placed in a washing machine on a cold/gentle cycle. Once washed, air dry only
• Worn, cracked or broken portions of your orthosis should be assessed by your healthcare provider and repaired as soon as possible

Socks

• Always wear a clean sock or stocking with your AFO to reduce friction and protect it from perspiration.
• Change socks when necessary to reduce perspiration buildup
• Talcum powder may help to keep you dry and more comfortable
• Recommended socks: Apex Copper Cloud

Shoes

• A well-constructed lace up shoe will provide the best results
• Shoes with removable insoles and/or added depth may be necessary to accommodate the AFO
• Maintain a consistent heel height when switching between shoes
• Notify your healthcare provider if you notice any irregular wear patterns on the soles of your shoes
• Recommended shoes: Apex Footwear

If you have any additional questions about the wear and care of your device, consult your healthcare professional.

Downloadable Wear & Care Guides

Click to download printable Wear & Care documentation.