This article focuses on the proper use and maintenance of the orthotic devices used by AFO users, who should be provided by an orthotic technician and should be consulted if they have any questions.
An AFO designed, fabricated and fitted by an orthotic technician must have the following characteristics.
1, in the daily wear, can have a role in helping to improve its orthotic function, such as fixed, corrective, load-free, high replenishment function. But the orthotic is not a panacea, the performance of various functions require the cooperation of the orthotic technician and family members to have an effect.
2, there should not be great difficulty in wearing, relatively simple and convenient for patients to wear.
3, the user will not feel too much discomfort, the force exerted on the AFO users can bear.
4, there is a relatively beautiful appearance, appearance is a factor to attract users to wear, if an ankle foot orthosis AFO has good function, coupled with good appearance, is more successful.
Second, there are two ways to wear orthotics
1, first wear the AFO orthosis on the foot and then wear it into the shoe
2, first wear the AFO orthosis in the shoe after wearing to the foot
These two methods, in the process of use, the user can choose according to the degree of difficulty in wearing. As long as the correct wear AFO on it.
Third, shoes and socks
Wearing socks can strengthen the air flow between the AFO and the foot to keep the foot dry and also reduce the chance of friction. Socks should not be too tight, pull smooth, preferably cotton socks; feet will sweat more than usual when using AFO, so you must change socks often to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
AFO is made of polypropylene, polyethylene material, the contact surface is very slippery, can not directly contact with the ground, so the user must wear shoes to prevent slipping, and can not wear high heels and sandals; shoe size should be moderate, shoes are too large, AFO in the shoe will move back and forth; shoes are too small, the foot will produce unnecessary pressure.
Generally speaking, the ideal heel height is within two centimeters, each AFO has a set heel height at the time of design, the difference between the heel height of the old and new shoes when changing shoes should not exceed one centimeter, too high when the user will tilt forward, too low when the user will tilt backward. In both cases, the user is at risk of falling.
Fourth, how to wear correctly
Each AFO is designed according to the individual needs of the user, so if the user finds a deep pressure point or a painful point after wearing, he/she should immediately notify the orthotic technician.
V. Common Phenomena After Wearing
New users must take off the AFO for 15 minutes during the first few days, three to four hours each time it is worn, to allow the foot to slowly get used to the AFO orthosis, the initial wear requires a period of adaptation, if after the adaptation period there is still uncomfortable feeling, please notify the orthotic technician.
For edema that occurs after prolonged wear, lie down or elevate your foot for a while after removing the AFO.
If you gain or lose weight, you may need to change your AFO because it is too tight or too loose. users should check their feet daily for blisters or breaks in the skin, especially if they have skin problems, early detection of problems can be prevented and treated. Newly made AFOs may show red marks on the skin after removal, these red marks will fade in about 20 minutes.
When you find that your AFO is not clean or odor, you can use a towel with soapy water to scrub clean, and then air dry, such as odor can not be eliminated, you can try to use deodorant.
Sixth, personal hygiene.
Users should wash their feet thoroughly with soap daily, keep the toes between, the soles of the feet clean, and then apply moisturizing cream, too dry skin is easily damaged
Seven, please keep in mind
1.Wearing must be correct
2.Do not soak the AFO in water
3, please follow the arrangement of the orthotic technician to check the AFO, at least once a year
4.If the AFO is damaged, do not repair it yourself
5.If you encounter any problems, please consult your orthotic technician immediately