Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)

Looking for an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) in Mississauga or Guelph? At Custom Orthotic Design Group Ltd., our Canadian Board Certified Orthotists provide specialized clinical assessments to design the best custom leg brace for your mobility needs. Whether you require a hinged AFO for flexibility, a rigid design for stability, or a dynamic brace for foot drop, our 30+ years of experience ensures a precise fit. Because we feature an on-site manufacturing lab, we provide faster adjustments and superior comfort to help you prevent falls and walk with confidence.
Book your expert orthotic consultation today

What is an AFO?

About Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO)

AFO stands for Ankle Foot Orthosis (pl. Ankle Foot Orthoses), or foot drop brace, and it is a specialized medical device, brace or splint that is worn on the leg from below the knee onto the foot. There are several different types of AFOs and they are made for many different reasons.

AFOs are used by people who have cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, polio, arthritis, diabetes, stroke, Charcot Marie Tooth and many other issues that affect the feet, ankles and sometimes even the knee.

AFOs are made according to the specific needs of each person. There are many different styles and they are made according to the medical, biomechanical and environmental needs of the individual. They can be used for issues such as foot drop (drop foot), ankle arthritis, ankle pain, side to side instability and leg weakness.

The main types of AFOs are called flexible, rigid or hinged. You can see some pictures with descriptions below.

How we can help

We Make It Simple For You

1 - Speak with your family doctor

See your family doctor or specialist for a diagnosis of your problem (for example, foot drop due to a stroke)

If appropriate, the doctor would write a prescription for an AFO with a diagnosis (for example, Dx – Stroke, foot drop, Tx – AFO)

2 - Come in for an assessment

When you come in for the assessment, we will:

Take a detailed medical history
Perform a physical examination of your lower extremities
Perform a biomechanical examination
Perform a gait analysis (how you walk – with or without walker, cane, AFOs or other gait aid)
Explain to you about treatment options

3 - If you choose to go ahead

If you choose to go ahead with an AFO, we will:

Take a shape capture (impression) and measurements of your foot and leg
Design custom treatment for your specific needs
Complete all Ministry of Health Assistive Devices Program (ADP), DVA, NIHB and insurance paperwork
Answer all of your questions

Our Registered Technicians will custom make your AFO at our laboratory in Mississauga (this process takes approximately 1-2 weeks)

4 - Proceed with an AFO delivery

At the delivery appointment we will:

Complete all of the final adjustments
Have you walk and test it out
Teach you to use the AFO
Schedule a follow up

5 - Follow-up

You will return for the follow up and re-evaluation

We will provide any necessary adjustments and follow-up visits as required

6 - We are always here for you

Any time you have any changes, discomfort or if the AFO is not working as it should, you will book an appointment to see us again for an re-evaluation and possible adjustments.

Light Weight Straightforward Design

Flexible Ankle Foot Orthosis

A light weight straightforward brace design that prevents the foot from plantar flexing (dropping) to allow a smooth swing of the foot without catching the toe on the ground.

Made from polypropylene plastic or carbon fibre
Velcro closures
Recommended for foot drop due to Charcot Marie Tooth, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis, radiculopathy or nerve injuries
This design is good for people who have an ankle that is stable from side to side

Control up or down and Side to Side movement

Hinged Ankle Foot Orthosis

Hinged ankle foot orthoses are braces that are used to control plantar and/or dorsi flexion (up or down movements of the foot) and inversion/eversion (side to side) movements. The hinged ankle foot orthosis can be a plastic, metal or carbon fibre design.

Large variety of ankle joints (hinges) available
Joints selected according to client needs, weight, activity level
Recommended for foot drop with stroke (CVA) or cerebral palsy; and in arthritic or painful conditions to limit ankle motion
Controls side to side motion and up/down motion
Can be used to help control the knee motion, such as knee hyperextension

Ultimate stability for the ankle and foot

Rigid Ankle Foot Orthosis

Rigid Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO) are used to help immobilize the foot and ankle for people who have pain and/or instability of the foot and ankle. The rigid design works to prevent excess motion that might lead to instability or can contribute to pain.

Ultimate stability for the ankle and foot
Recommended for people who have complications from injuries, arthritis, or severe instability of the ankle.
Can be used to help provide stability for the knee

Custom made to address your needs

Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker (CROW)

The CROW is a custom made brace and very specialized type of AFO that is designed to immobilize the foot and ankle and offload (take away) pressure.

Worn without a shoe
Rockered soling allows for a smooth gait or walking pattern
Recommended for people who have complications from diabetes such as a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) or a Charcot Joint.
Takes the place of a cast but can be removed for dressing changes and to check the skin.

Low profile

Silicone Ankle Foot Orthosis (SAFO)

The SAFO is a design that is used for people who have a flaccid paralysis of the feet.

Circumferential, low-profile design
Worn with or without shoes
Optimal proprioception
Excellent plantar flexion (drop foot) control
Recommended with Charcot Marie Tooth disease, multiple sclerosis, poliomyelitis, stroke and spinal cord injury

Photo courtesy of Dorset Orthopaedic Company Ltd.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can an AFO help treat?

What do AFOs provide?

Ankle stability
Ankle alignment
Ankle/foot control
Knee control
Protection for the feet
Proprioceptive feedback
Offloading for a wound or ulcer
Reduce energy requirements

What is an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) and how does it help?

An Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is a custom-made leg brace designed to support the foot and ankle, improve alignment, and enhance mobility. At Custom Orthotic Design Group, we use AFOs to stabilize joints, reduce pain, and assist with conditions like foot drop by holding the foot in a neutral position to prevent tripping.

Does the Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP) cover AFO braces?

Yes. Because our AFOs are custom-fabricated by a Certified Orthotist, they are typically eligible for 75% funding through the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP). Our team handles the ADP, DVA, and NIHB paperwork for you during your appointment in Mississauga or Guelph to ensure you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.

What is the difference between a rigid and a hinged AFO?

A rigid AFO provides maximum stability by locking the ankle in place, which is ideal for severe instability or preventing excess motion that causes pain. A hinged (articulated) AFO allows for controlled movement at the ankle joint, making it better for patients who have some muscle control but need help with side-to-side stability or foot clearance.

How long does it take to get a custom AFO made?

After your initial assessment and shape capture (casting), it typically takes 1 to 2 weeks to custom-manufacture your AFO in our on-site laboratory. This on-site process allows us to provide faster delivery and more precise adjustments than clinics that out-source their manufacturing.

What kind of shoes should I wear with my AFO brace?

You should look for shoes that are wide, deep, and have a removable insole. Bringing your AFO with you when shoe shopping is essential. Features like Velcro closures or laces allow for a secure fit over the brace, and a rigid heel counter provides the best support.

How do I break in a new AFO brace?

We recommend a gradual break-in schedule to prevent skin irritation. Start by wearing the brace for 1–2 hours on the first day and increase the time by one hour each day. Always wear a clean, moisture-wicking, knee-high sock underneath the brace to protect your skin.