Use the Quick Fix: remove the shoe insole, place AFO on midsole, then add the insole (or a thin comfort insole) above the AFO so your foot rests on the insert, not on carbon fiber.

Switch to AFO-friendly shoes (removable insole, deep toe box, firm heel counter). Remove insole, loosen closures, and consider wider/deeper shoes. If the foot plate is too long, have it trimmed by an orthotist — do not size up.

Check socks (thin, seamless, no wrinkles). Add minimal spot-padding. If redness persists or you get blisters/numbness/tingling, stop and contact a clinician.

Do not order a larger size — the brace will be too tall for your calf and the velcro won't hold correctly. Instead, contact any orthotic company such as Hanger Orthotics and Prosthetics to have the foot plate professionally trimmed to fit your shoe.

The AFO Light is a lightweight, low-profile option for mild to moderate drop foot in patients up to 220 lbs. The AFO Dynamic is preferred when a more dynamic feel, higher weight capacity (up to 265 lbs), or mild knee instability is a factor — it also features side-mounted support for better pressure distribution and is less visible in shoes. Your clinician should confirm the best option for your condition and gait needs.

Sizing is based on calf height — not circumference. Stand upright and find the thickest point of your calf. This is where the velcro strap wraps around and holds the brace in place. Measure from that thickest point straight down to the floor. Match this measurement to the size chart on the product page. Shoe size is used as a secondary confirmation only.

Do not buy a larger size. Sizing up means the brace will be too tall for your calf and the velcro strap won't hold correctly. Instead, have the foot plate professionally trimmed. Any orthotic company — such as Hanger Orthotics and Prosthetics — can trim your AFO foot plate to the correct size. This is a routine procedure that preserves the structural integrity of the carbon fiber.

Remove the shoe's insole, place the AFO inside on the midsole, then add the insole back (or a thin comfort insert) above the AFO. Your foot rests on the insert instead of directly on carbon fiber.

Often yes. Look for shoes with a removable insole, deep toe box, firm heel counter, and adjustable closures. Some users prefer a slightly larger or wider shoe once the AFO is inside. If the foot plate is too long for your current shoes, have it trimmed by an orthotist — do not size up on the brace.

Yes. Any orthotic company — such as Hanger Orthotics and Prosthetics — can trim your AFO foot plate to the correct size. Trimming should always be performed by a qualified professional to preserve the structural integrity of the carbon fiber and avoid rough edges or pressure points. Once modified, the brace typically cannot be returned as new.

Thin, seamless, moisture-wicking socks are best. Avoid cotton when possible, and smooth out wrinkles before putting on the brace to reduce friction and hot spots.

Start with 1–2 hours per day and increase gradually. Many users adjust over 2–4 weeks. Stop and contact a clinician for persistent redness, blisters, numbness, tingling, or swelling.

An AFO (Ankle-Foot Orthosis) brace is used to support the ankle and foot, most commonly for conditions such as foot drop, stroke-related weakness, multiple sclerosis, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and other neurological or musculoskeletal conditions that affect gait and ankle stability.

Carbon fiber AFOs are lighter, thinner, and more energy-efficient than traditional plastic AFOs. They provide dynamic energy return during walking, which can reduce fatigue. Plastic AFOs are typically more rigid. A clinician should determine which type is best for your specific needs.

Many people wear AFO braces throughout the day, but it is important to follow a break-in schedule, check skin regularly for pressure points, and follow your clinician's wear schedule. Remove the brace at night unless specifically instructed otherwise.