AFO

Medical abbreviation · Rehabilitation

AFO
Stands forAnkle-foot orthosis
CategoriesMedical

AFO stands for Ankle-foot orthosis, a rehabilitation abbreviation.

Brace worn on the lower leg and foot, usually plastic or carbon fiber, that controls ankle motion and supports weak muscles, most often for foot drop after stroke, nerve injury or multiple sclerosis.

Example: Trial of L AFO improved toe clearance; gait 0.4 to 0.6 m/s.

Usage notes

Types include solid, hinged and posterior leaf spring designs. Custom AFOs are molded by orthotists, and off-the-shelf versions are available. Skin should be checked for pressure areas, especially in people with reduced sensation.

More rehabilitation abbreviations

  • 6MWT – Six-minute walk test
  • AAC – Augmentative and alternative communication
  • AAROM – Active-assisted range of motion
  • ABC – Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale
  • AD – Assistive device
  • ADL – Activities of daily living
  • AKA – Above-knee amputation
  • AM-PAC – Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care
  • AROM – Active range of motion
  • BBS – Berg Balance Scale
  • BKA – Below-knee amputation
  • BWSTT – Body-weight-supported treadmill training

See all 98 rehabilitation abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.