Ankle-Foot Orthotics
Custom ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs) designed to support the ankle and foot, improve alignment, and enhance walking ability.
What Are Ankle-Foot Orthotics (AFOs)?
Ankle-foot orthotics, commonly referred to as AFOs, are supportive devices designed to control and support the position and movement of the foot and ankle. They are often used to improve walking ability, increase stability, and reduce strain on muscles and joints.
An AFO can help guide the foot into a more natural position during walking, prevent unwanted movement, and provide support where weakness or instability is present. This can be especially helpful for individuals experiencing foot drop, ankle instability, nerve injury, or neurological conditions that affect movement and balance.
Our custom ankle-foot orthotics are carefully designed to suit each individual’s anatomy, condition, and lifestyle. Whether the goal is to improve gait, reduce the risk of falls, or support long-term mobility, AFOs play an important role in restoring confidence and comfort in everyday movement.
Types of Ankle-Foot Orthotics
Different conditions, mobility levels, and lifestyles require different types of ankle-foot orthotics. We offer a range of custom and specialised AFO solutions, each designed to provide the right balance of support, control, and comfort.
Solid Ankle-Foot Orthotics (Solid AFOs):
These provide maximum stability by limiting ankle movement. Solid AFOs are commonly used to support significant weakness, foot drop, or instability, helping to improve safety and control during walking.
Hinged / Articulated AFOs:
Designed to control ankle movement and provide support, hinged AFOs are ideal for those who need stability without completely restricting motion. They are often used when balance and muscle control have shown improvement. We work with high-quality joint systems such as Fior & Gentz, Tamarack Flexure Joints, and Ottobock Nextgear Tango, allowing us to tailor to each individual’s specific needs.
Posterior Leaf Spring (PLS) AFOs:
Lightweight and flexible, PLS AFOs assist with lifting the foot during walking, making them a common choice for managing foot drop while allowing a more natural gait pattern.
Carbon Fibre AFOs:
These lightweight ankle-foot orthotics store and release energy during walking, helping to improve efficiency and reduce fatigue. Carbon fibre AFOs are often suited to more active individuals seeking dynamic support.
Ground Reaction AFOs (GRAFOs):
Designed to influence knee and ankle positioning, ground reaction AFOs provide stability during stance phase and are often prescribed for conditions affecting knee control.
Custom-Made Ankle-Foot Orthotics:
All of our AFOs can be custom-made to match your anatomy, footwear, and daily activities, ensuring optimal fit, comfort, and long-term effectiveness.
Meet Oswald and Anerie
With over a decade of experience, Oswald Gibson remains the heart of the practice. After graduating with honours in Orthotic and Prosthetic Technology, he spent seven years at Sandton Mediclinic before relocating to Cape Town to lead the Constantiaberg practice. His work is driven by a genuine commitment to improving mobility and quality of life through thoughtful, precision-based care.
Joining him is Anerie du Plessis, a qualified Medical Orthotist and Prosthetist with a special interest in paediatric orthotics. Anerie is passionate about helping children achieve greater mobility and independence through custom-designed braces and orthotic devices. She also works closely with patients who have experienced limb loss, creating personalised prosthetic solutions. Her approach is holistic and patient-centred, considering not only physical support but also emotional and social well-being.
Conditions Treated with Ankle-Foot Orthotics
Ankle-foot orthotics are an effective solution for a wide range of conditions that affect walking, balance, and lower-limb stability. By supporting proper alignment and controlling movement, AFOs can improve safety, comfort, and confidence during everyday activities.
Foot Drop:
An AFO helps lift the foot during walking, reducing the risk of tripping and improving gait efficiency for individuals with weakness or nerve damage.
Stroke-Related Weakness:
Following a stroke, ankle-foot orthotics can support weakened muscles, improve balance, and assist with more symmetrical and stable walking.
Cerebral Palsy:
AFOs are commonly used to support alignment, control muscle tone, and assist with walking in both children and adults living with cerebral palsy.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
For individuals with MS, ankle-foot orthotics can help manage fatigue, instability, and changes in muscle control that affect walking.
Peripheral Nerve Injuries:
Nerve injuries that impact foot and ankle movement can benefit from the stability and control provided by a custom ankle-foot orthotic.
Chronic Ankle Instability or Recurrent Sprains:
AFOs provide added support and control for unstable ankles, helping to prevent further injury and improve confidence during movement.
Supporting Better Walking and Gait
Ankle-foot orthotics play a key role in improving the way people walk. By supporting the foot and ankle in a more aligned position, AFOs can help create a smoother, safer, and more efficient walking pattern.
During your assessment, we look closely at how you move — including balance, muscle control, and gait mechanics. This allows us to design ankle-foot orthotics that reduce compensations, improve stability, and decrease the effort required to walk. For many patients, this leads to less fatigue, fewer falls, and greater confidence in everyday movement.
Whether the goal is to improve walking after injury, support neurological conditions, or enhance long-term mobility, our focus is always on helping patients move with greater comfort, control, and independence.
Materials and Technology We Use
The effectiveness of an ankle-foot orthotic depends not only on its design, but also on the materials and technology used to create it. We carefully select materials based on your condition, mobility needs, footwear, and lifestyle to ensure the best possible outcome.
- Thermoplastic Ankle-Foot Orthotics:
Thermoplastics are commonly used in custom AFOs due to their durability, versatility, and ability to be moulded precisely to the individual. These materials provide reliable support while allowing for comfort and adjustability over time. - Carbon Fibre AFOs:
Carbon fibre ankle-foot orthotics are lightweight and dynamic, designed to store and release energy during walking. They are often suited to more active individuals who require efficient movement and reduced fatigue without compromising stability. - Lightweight Composite Materials:
Modern composite materials allow us to create orthotics that are strong yet lightweight, improving comfort for daily wear and long-term use. - Advanced Assessment and Custom Design:
We use detailed clinical assessments, gait analysis, and modern design techniques to ensure each ankle-foot orthotic is tailored to the individual. This precision helps improve fit, function, and overall mobility outcomes.
Why Choose Oswald Gibson Orthotics and Prosthetics?
Experienced Team:
With over 30 years of trusted service in Cape Town, our practice is led by Oswald Gibson, a highly skilled orthotist and prosthetist committed to improving patients' quality of life.
State-of-the-Art Technology:
We utilise cutting-edge tools, including 3D scanning and CAD/CAM software, to design precise and comfortable orthotic and prosthetic solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Patient-Centred Approach:
Our compassionate team prioritises your well-being, working closely with you to develop customised treatment plans that address your specific functional requirements.
Comprehensive Services:
From prosthetics and orthotics to bracing and compression garments, we offer a wide range of services to meet all your mobility and support needs.
Convenient Locations:
Our main office is situated at Mediclinic Constantiaberg, with additional sessional practices in Fish Hoek and Simon's Town.
Holistic Rehabilitation:
We believe in a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with various healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your rehabilitation journey.
Conveniently Located for Comprehensive Care
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Frequently asked questions
What is an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO) brace?
An ankle-foot orthotic, also known as an AFO brace or ankle-foot brace, is a custom-made orthotic device designed to support the foot and ankle. It helps improve walking, stability, and alignment for people with weakness, nerve damage, or balance difficulties.
What conditions are ankle-foot orthotics used for?
Ankle-foot orthotics are commonly used for foot drop, stroke-related weakness, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, peripheral nerve injuries, and chronic ankle instability. They are also prescribed to improve gait and reduce the risk of falls.
Do I need an ankle brace or an ankle-foot orthotic?
An ankle brace is often used for short-term support after a sprain or injury. An ankle-foot orthotic (AFO) provides more structured, long-term support and is typically prescribed when walking ability, muscle control, or alignment is affected. A consultation helps determine which option is right for you.
What is the best orthotic for foot drop?
The best orthotic for foot drop is usually a custom ankle-foot orthotic designed to assist with lifting the foot during walking. The specific type of AFO depends on muscle strength, activity level, and overall mobility needs.
Are ankle-foot orthotics custom made?
Yes. We specialise in custom ankle-foot orthotics in Cape Town, designed specifically for your foot shape, condition, footwear, and lifestyle. Custom AFOs provide better comfort, support, and long-term results than off-the-shelf foot braces.
How much does an ankle-foot orthotic cost in South Africa?
The cost of an ankle-foot orthotic varies depending on the design, materials (such as thermoplastic or carbon fibre), and level of customisation required. After an assessment, we provide a detailed quote and can assist with medical aid submissions where applicable.
A Cape Town foot doctor or foot doctor near me can assess your symptoms and recommend the right orthotic insoles for your needs.
Are ankle-foot orthotics covered by medical aid?
Medical aid coverage for ankle-foot orthotics depends on your specific plan. We assist patients with quotes, motivation letters, and the documentation needed to submit a medical aid claim.
How long does it take to get a custom AFO brace?
Most custom ankle-foot orthotics are completed within a few weeks following assessment, casting or scanning, and fitting. Timelines may vary depending on the complexity of the brace.
Can I walk normally with an ankle-foot orthotic?
Many patients experience improved walking confidence, stability, and comfort when using an AFO. While there may be a short adjustment period, ankle-foot orthotics are designed to support a more natural and efficient walking pattern.
How long do ankle-foot orthotics last?
With proper care, most ankle-foot orthotics last several years. Regular reviews are recommended to ensure the brace continues to fit well and provide the appropriate level of support as your needs change.
How do I care for my ankle-foot brace?
Clean your ankle-foot orthotic with mild soap and water, allow it to dry fully, and avoid excessive heat. We recommend follow-up appointments to check fit and function over time.
Where can I get ankle-foot orthotics in Cape Town?
We provide custom ankle-foot orthotics across Cape Town, with our main practice at Mediclinic Constantiaberg and additional sessional clinics in Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town.