What is AFO-compatible footwear?

AFO-compatible footwear is designed to accommodate ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) and similar leg braces. These shoes have extra depth, wider openings, and often removable footbeds to provide space for the brace while maintaining proper fit and function.

Can I wear regular shoes with my AFO?

In most cases, regular shoes don't provide enough depth or width to comfortably accommodate an AFO. Forcing a brace into regular shoes can cause skin breakdown, instability, and reduced brace effectiveness. Purpose-designed AFO footwear or custom shoes are recommended.

Do I need different sized shoes for my AFO?

Often yes. The foot wearing an AFO typically needs a shoe 1-2 sizes larger or wider than your other foot. Some people benefit from buying two different sized shoes, or having one shoe stretched. Custom footwear can address significant size differences.

Is AFO-compatible footwear covered by NDIS?

Yes, NDIS can fund AFO-compatible footwear when it's related to your disability and included in your plan. Both prefabricated AFO shoes and custom footwear can be covered depending on your needs.

AFO-Compatible Footwear Explained

If you or someone you care for wears an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), you know that finding suitable shoes can be frustrating. Regular footwear often doesn't fit, and the wrong shoes can cause discomfort, skin problems, and reduce the effectiveness of your brace.

What is an AFO?

An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a brace that supports the ankle and foot. AFOs are prescribed for conditions including:

Foot drop (weakness lifting the front of the foot)
Stroke or other neurological conditions
Cerebral palsy
Multiple sclerosis
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Post-surgical or post-injury rehabilitation

Why Regular Shoes Don't Work

Common Problems

When people try to fit AFOs into regular shoes, they often experience:

• Shoes that are too tight and cause rubbing or skin breakdown
• Shoes that are too long because extra width was needed
• Difficulty getting the shoe on and off over the brace
• Unstable fit that affects walking safety
• Rapid shoe wear due to poor fit
• Reduced effectiveness of the AFO

AFO-Compatible Footwear Options

1. Extra-Depth Shoes

Medical-grade shoes with additional depth (typically 10-14mm extra) can accommodate many AFOs. Look for:

Removable insoles to create more space
Wide opening (laces, velcro, or zip) for easy entry
Firm heel counter for stability
Non-slip sole

2. Purpose-Built AFO Shoes

Some manufacturers make shoes specifically designed for AFOs, featuring:

Extra volume throughout the shoe
Higher heel collar to enclose the brace
Smooth interiors to prevent rubbing
Easy fastening systems

3. Custom Footwear

When prefabricated options can't accommodate your AFO, custom footwear is the solution:

Made from 3D scans with your AFO in place
Can accommodate any AFO shape or size
May include built-in AFO components for some cases
Matched to your other foot for appearance

Footwear with Built-In AFO Support

In some cases, we can build AFO-like support directly into custom footwear. This is called "footwear with internally built AFOs" and can provide:

A cleaner appearance (the support is hidden inside the shoe)
Less bulk overall
Easier donning/doffing (putting on and taking off)
Better cosmetic matching between feet

Important Note

Not all AFOs can be replaced by built-in support. This option works best for mild to moderate ankle instability. Your orthotist and pedorthist should work together to determine if this is appropriate for you.

Tips for Fitting AFO Footwear

1
Always bring your AFO to the fitting. Footwear must be fitted with the brace in place.
2
Wear the same socks you'll use daily. AFO socks are often thinner than regular socks.
3
Try shoes at the end of the day. Feet swell during the day, especially with reduced mobility.
4
Walk around and check for rubbing. Any red marks or discomfort will likely worsen with wear.
5
Consider both feet. The shoe for your other foot needs to match in height and style.