AFO
Also written as: AFO — Ankle–Foot Orthosis
Ankle–Foot Orthosis; a device that supports the ankle and foot to control position and motion.
Full Definition
An ankle–foot orthosis (AFO) is one of the most commonly prescribed orthotic devices, used to support the ankle joint and control foot drop, spasticity, or instability. It typically extends from below the knee to the foot. In editorial contexts, the hyphen in 'ankle–foot' should be an en dash when the term is used as a compound modifier, though house style may vary. The acronym AFO should be introduced at first use with its full form. AFOs are frequently referenced in neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation documents.
Usage
Usage note: Always expand AFO at first use. Note that the separator between 'ankle' and 'foot' is conventionally an en dash (–), not a hyphen, though style guides vary.
In Context
- "The physiotherapy notes indicated the patient had been using an AFO for six months prior to prosthetic evaluation." — Interdisciplinary rehabilitation note
- "At first mention, expand the acronym: 'ankle–foot orthosis (AFO),' then use 'AFO' throughout." — Editorial style guide