AFO
Pronunciation: A-F-O
Also written as: AFO — Ankle–Foot Orthosis
Ankle–Foot Orthosis; a brace that encases the ankle and part of the foot to control position and movement, commonly prescribed in neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Full Definition
An Ankle–Foot Orthosis (AFO) is an external supportive device worn on the lower leg and foot to stabilise the ankle, correct foot drop, or manage spastic equinus. It is one of the most frequently referenced orthotic devices in rehabilitation documentation. Editors should ensure the acronym is expanded on first use and that the hyphenated full form 'Ankle–Foot Orthosis' uses an en dash between 'Ankle' and 'Foot' per standard clinical style. AFOs are categorised by design type (e.g., solid, articulated, posterior leaf spring) and these subtypes may appear in clinical notes without further explanation.
Usage
Usage note: Use an en dash in the full form 'Ankle–Foot Orthosis.' Expand on first use; subsequent references may use the acronym alone.
In Context
- "A posterior leaf-spring AFO was prescribed to address foot drop following the patient's stroke." — Neurological rehabilitation clinical note
- "Compliance with AFO use was documented as inconsistent across the home program review." — Allied health progress report