AFO's (Ankle Foot Orthoses)

Specialist Support for Children, Adults, and Older Patients

At Woods Orthotics, we provide a comprehensive range of Ankle–Foot Orthoses (AFOs) for patients of all ages — from young children developing their gait, to adults managing long‑term conditions, to older individuals seeking greater stability and confidence. Every AFO we prescribe is designed with one goal in mind: to help people move more freely, safely, and comfortably in their everyday lives.
Our approach combines advanced clinical assessment, modern manufacturing techniques, and a genuinely collaborative relationship with each patient. The result is an orthosis that feels personal, purposeful, and truly supportive.

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How AFOs Improve Mobility and Quality of Life

AFOs are used to support the foot and ankle when weakness, instability, pain, or altered movement patterns affect mobility. They can make a significant difference for a wide range of conditions, including:

•    Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, MS, Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) Disease, Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), peripheral neuropathy, Spinal Cord Injury.
•    Musculoskeletal issues including tendon injuries, arthritis, or foot drop
•    Developmental conditions affecting gait in children
•    Post‑surgical rehabilitation
•    Balance and stability challenges in older adults

By guiding the foot and ankle into a more efficient position, an AFO can:

•    Improve walking pattern and reduce compensatory movements
•    Increase stability and reduce the risk of falls
•    Reduce fatigue by improving gait efficiency
•    Support weak muscles and protect vulnerable joints
•    Reduce pain caused by poor alignment or overloading
•    Enhance confidence during daily activities, work, and hobbies

For many patients, an AFO becomes a key part of maintaining independence and staying active.

Stock and Custom AFO Options

Tailored to Each Patient’s Needs

We recognise that every patient’s situation is unique. That’s why we offer both stock and fully custom‑made AFOs, ensuring we can provide the right level of support at the right time.

Stock AFOs

Stock AFOs are pre‑manufactured devices available in a range of sizes and designs. They are ideal when:

• Support is needed quickly

•    A standard design meets the clinical requirements
•    A temporary or interim solution is appropriate
•    The patient is trialling support before committing to a custom device
Despite being off‑the‑shelf, our stock AFOs are carefully selected for quality, comfort, and durability.

Custom AFOs

For patients with more complex needs, or when a precise fit is essential, we design and manufacture fully custom AFOs. This process includes:

• Detailed clinical assessment
• Digital foot pressure analysis

• 3D scanning or casting for accurate anatomical capture
• Fine‑tuning and adjustments during fitting

A custom AFO offers the highest level of comfort, control, and personalisation — built entirely around the patient’s anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.

High‑Quality Materials for Optimal Performance

We work with a wide range of materials to ensure each AFO delivers the right balance of strength, flexibility, and comfort. These include:

Carbon Fibre
Lightweight, strong, and highly responsive. Ideal for patients who need dynamic energy return, such as those with foot drop or high activity levels.

Thermoplastics
Versatile, durable, and easily adjustable. Perfect for children, evolving conditions, or patients who require a more adaptable design.

Hybrid and Composite Materials
Used when a combination of rigidity and flexibility is needed. These materials allow us to fine‑tune stiffness, comfort, and weight.

Soft Interface Materials
Padding, liners, and cushioning materials ensure comfort, reduce pressure points, and improve long‑term wearability.

By combining the right materials with precise design, we create AFOs that feel supportive without being bulky or restrictive.

A Collaborative, Patient‑Centred Process

Designed Around Real Lives, Not Just Clinical Data

We believe that an AFO should enhance a patient’s life — not complicate it. That’s why our process is built around partnership, communication, and ongoing support.

Assessment
We take time to understand the patient’s condition, goals, footwear, lifestyle, and daily challenges. This ensures the orthosis is designed with real‑world use in mind.

Design and Manufacturing
Using advanced digital tools, we create an AFO that matches the patient’s anatomy and functional needs. Every detail — from stiffness to trim lines to padding — is considered.

Fitting and Fine‑Tuning
We work closely with the patient to ensure the AFO feels comfortable and supportive. Adjustments are made as needed to achieve the best possible fit.

Follow‑Up and Long‑Term Support
As conditions change, footwear changes, or activity levels shift, we’re here to help. We provide ongoing reviews, adjustments, and advice to keep the AFO performing at its best.

Helping Patients Move with Confidence

Whether supporting a child’s development, helping an adult return to work, or giving an older patient greater stability, our AFOs are designed to make a meaningful difference. At Woods Orthotics, we combine clinical expertise with genuine care to create orthotic solutions that improve mobility, comfort, and quality of life.