Drop foot is a condition in which the forefoot drops involuntarily due to irritation, weakness, or damage in the sciatic nerve or paralysis of the muscles in the anterior part of the leg. This leads to an abnormality in walking due to the inability to raise the foot or the toes.
There are various orthotics to help a person suffering from drop foot disorder to walk normally by providing support to the foot. Though there are various commercial brands of drop foot braces that available in the market, their main functioning is similar. Drop foot braces work to hold the foot at a 90° angle, supporting it and reducing any discomfort while walking.
When to wear them?
People suffering from the drop foot disorder need to wear the braces throughout the day. They can be worn with or without shoes. The braces need not be worn only while walking; they can be kept on while sitting as well. There are foot supports that can be worn at night time to support the foot so that the blood supply is not disturbed while sleeping.
What are the braces made of?
The braces are made of breathable foam laminated material that is latex-free. The center release buckle on the braces is made of plastic. It has nylon straps to hold the brace in place. The Velcro used is of medically approved material.
Who are they made for?
The braces are available in different sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any foot and ankle size. They are available for children of all ages as well.
What sizes are they available in?
These braces are available in sizes S, M, L, and XL size. S and M can fit an ankle up to 10″, and size L and XL can fit an ankle of up to 12.5″. You can select the ideal braces for you as per the circumference of your ankles.
How are you supposed to wear them?
Many commercial brands of drop foot braces make these braces in the slip on and lace shoe application pattern. These can be worn with slippers and also with shoes. They can fit in well inside the shoe or slipper, making it easy for you to wear them to work or outside.
How should the braces be maintained?
Most commercial brands that manufacture drop foot braces produce them in a washable material. They can be hand washed in mildly warm water and then air dried. Refrain from drying the braces in a dryer as the high temperature can damage the buckles and the Velcro.
What is the height of braces?
Drop foot braces come in standard sizes. S and M sizes are about 9″ in height, and the L and XL sizes come in about 11″ in height. These braces can be worn at all times because of their breathable factor. They do not enclose the heels and have a highly adjustable and durable strapping system. These braces can be worn with or without socks. With more advanced designs, they can be worn inside shoes and slippers as well. To make them attractive for children, they come in bright colors and quirky designs. For adults, these braces are available in black, white, and nude colors.
There are many commercial brands of these braces. Some of these well-known brands are Synergy AFO foot drop brace, Salo Orthotics foot drop brace, Ossur foot-up foot -drop brace, Flamingo foot drop brace, Tynor foot drop brace, Kenad foot drop braces and the Insightful products Step-Smart® Braces.
What is the cost range?
A drop foot brace can cost anywhere between $40 and $200 in the country. However, if you were to buy the product on a commercial website like on Amazon, you can get it for a lower price depending on the deals that are available at the time of purchase. It is advisable to buy these braces with proper advice and trial so that their constant use does not harm you in any way.
Things to keep in mind while buying a brace
Drop foot disorder may be permanent or temporary. While buying the braces for the same, it is best to check the durability of the product. People having sensitive skin need to ensure that the material of the braces suits their skin type. Also, it is best to wear the drop foot braces with socks to prevent any allergic reactions. Since they are to be worn most of the time, select a size that will not be too tight and also comfortable for your feet. Constant friction can lead to callous formations, which can again make it difficult to put weight on the foot while walking. Hence, it is very important that the drop foot braces you buy fit your feet and ankle perfectly and are comfortable for you to wear for long periods of time.
