What equipment exists for foot drop?

What do hospitals use to help their patients who suffer from foot drop?

1.) Introduction

There are a ton of things on the market that claim to treat foot drop, but there are 2 options that are used by medical professionals on a daily basis that currently address the issue on a consistent basis. If you have foot drop then we are sorry that you have to deal with this condition. However, this free article can help you to become informed on what can really work for you. No, do not worry, this is not an infomercial!

2.) Equipment That Works

A.) PRAFO

Foot drop affects people in different ways. Sometimes people have this condition and the individual will be in bed a long time. If this is the case, individuals usually use a brace called a PRAFO. This is an acronym that stands for "pressure relief ankle foot orthosis". These devices are padded on the inside. Meaning, anywhere that basically touches the skin will be soft, while having a more rigid construct on the outside of the padding. What this does is provide accommodative support to the foot and ankle. In general, when someone has foot drop and they are going to be in bed for a while, then the brace will typically be set at a ninety degree angle. This is considered to be a neutral setting and in this way people can avoid having a foot drop, which is considered to be when the foot and ankle start to reach angles which are larger than ninety degrees.

B.) Traditional AFOs

Traditional ankle foot orthoses (foot and ankle braces) are an excellent way to treat foot drop for people that can get out of bed and try and walk. Typically, these braces are not worn in bed, unless they are AFO "night splints". Usually, these braces fit into the shoe and are made from low profile plastic. They can however be made from metal and leather and are attached to a shoe (these are less common devices). AFOs can help you keep your foot up when you walk, provide side to side ankle stability and can also provide indirect support to your knee. This is important for people who buckle their knee or hyperextend (snap it backward) due to weakness or instability.

Note: This is health information. It is good information, but you will need to talk with your local, licensed orthotist when it comes to getting a brace for your needs. Medical advice on bracing should be provided by these individuals.