What is an ankle foot orthosis (AFO)?

An AFO is a custom brace that supports the ankle and foot, used to correct foot drop, steady an unstable foot and offload pressure. At EDFC it is prescribed by Dr. Ashutosh Shah to make walking safer and prevent ulcers.

What conditions does an AFO help?

An AFO helps foot drop, a weak or unstable ankle, and a deformed or fragile foot such as a Charcot foot. By holding the foot in a safe position, it restores a steadier gait and protects the skin.

How does an AFO prevent ulcers?

By holding the foot correctly and spreading load properly, an AFO reduces the abnormal pressure that causes ulcers, and by improving stability it lowers the risk of falls and injuries.

Is an AFO comfortable in a numb foot?

It must be fitted carefully, because a numb foot cannot feel a pressure point from a poorly fitting brace. At EDFC the AFO is fitted and reviewed with the skin's safety in mind.

Is an AFO an alternative to surgery for foot drop?

Often, yes. Many people manage foot drop well with an AFO, and it is usually tried first. Surgery is considered when a brace is not enough or not tolerated.

How much does an AFO cost in India?

Cost depends on the type of AFO and how custom it needs to be. EDFC explains all charges before starting. Contact the clinic for an estimate for your needs.

Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)

A brace that supports the ankle and foot to correct foot drop and steady an unstable foot, in India.

An ankle foot orthosis (AFO) for the diabetic foot in India is a custom brace that supports the ankle and foot, used to correct foot drop, steady an unstable or deformed foot and offload pressure, so that walking is safer and ulcers are prevented. At Elegance Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic (EDFC) an AFO is prescribed and fitted, guided by Dr. Ashutosh Shah (M.S., M.Ch., 22+ years) in Surat, Gujarat and Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh.

Why an AFO Is Used

When the ankle and foot cannot hold a safe position, whether from foot drop, weakness or a deformed, unstable foot, walking becomes unsafe and pressure builds in the wrong places. An AFO holds the foot correctly, restoring a safer gait and protecting the skin from abnormal load.

What an AFO Does

Holds the foot up to correct foot drop.
Stabilises a weak, deformed or unstable ankle and foot.
Offloads pressure and supports a healing or fragile foot.
Improves balance and reduces the risk of falls.
Works with your footwear and custom orthotics.

Who Benefits from an AFO

People with foot drop or an unsteady, dragging walk.
Those with a weak or unstable ankle and foot.
Patients with a deformed or fragile Charcot foot.
Anyone needing support to walk safely and protect the skin.

Why Choose EDFC and Dr. Ashutosh Shah

EDFC is India’s first chain of clinics dedicated to diabetic foot care, so an AFO here is prescribed with both walking and ulcer prevention in mind. It complements Charcot footwear and, where more support is needed, a walking brace.

What to Expect

Your AFO is fitted to your leg and reviewed for comfort and skin safety, which matters especially in a numb foot. Correctly fitted, it makes walking safer and helps prevent pressure injuries.

Book an AFO Consultation

Steady and support your foot. Message us on WhatsApp (+91 83205 00350) or book a consultation with Dr. Shah in Surat or Vizianagaram.

This page is educational and does not replace an in-person fitting or diagnosis. Please have any foot drop or instability assessed by a qualified specialist.

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