What are ankle orthotics?
ankle orthotics are external devices, usually in the form of inserts or braces, designed to control ankle. The most common ankle orthotics is called AFO or ankle leg. These braces are designed to include the ankle and the whole leg to provide support and proper movement. They are useful in correction or control of muscle imbalances and deformities. They directly control the ankle and can be used indirectly to check the knee by solving problems. The ankle orthotics are used to hold ankle and legs in a position and prevent things like drop leg and rolling the foot during ambulation. AFO can keep the leg at an angle of ninety degrees or more to make it out of the foot when swinging the foot. Pronation or supination, rolling or introduction of the leg can cause pain in ankle, legs and backs. It can also cause instability that can increase the risk of falling. Ankle orthotics can help control these abnormal movements and increase balance while reducing the symptoms of painassociated with abnormal movement of legs and ankle.
There are two types of ankle orthots. The first is the orthosis that allows normal bending of the ankle or bending ankle towards the knee. This orthotics is for those individuals who have less deformity or problem and who are quite active. On the other hand, the limiting ankle orthotics completely limits the movement of the ankle and is commonly used for people who have serious deformities or chronic problems.
The ankle orthotics can be designed as shoes inserts where either part of the foot or the whole leg is included. These plastic inserts go directly to the shoe and allow TPPORA ankle necessary for proper movement. Another ankle orthotics consists of double upright metal bars connected directly to the outside of the shoe. During sleep, there are even quiet AFOs that maintain proper positioning.
Most ankle orthots are made to measure. But there are pRefabricated AFO designed to control leg drop. They are primarily used for training purposes. Many rehabilitation centers use prefabricated orthotics to determine the need for adapted versions of prefabricated orthotics. Some athletes also use Prefab AFO during training to teach the correct placement of the ankle.