Ankle-foot orthosis
An ankle-foot orthosis, or AFO, is a brace that covers the lower leg and foot to control the ankle and help with conditions such as foot drop or after an ankle injury. It is used in orthopaedic and rehabilitation clinics, neurology services and by orthotists.
Common types
- Prefabricated plastic AFO: a ready-made polypropylene shell in standard sizes.
- Carbon fibre AFO: a light, thin brace that stores some energy during walking.
- Hinged or articulated AFO: an ankle joint that allows some movement while controlling the rest.
- Night splint: holds the foot at a set angle during rest or sleep.
- Walking boot or CAM walker: a padded boot with rigid uprights for fractures and ankle injuries.
What to tell us when you ask for a quotation
- Type and whether it is prefabricated or custom-made from a cast or scan
- Material (polypropylene, carbon fibre, aluminium) and stiffness
- Size range, left and right versions, and shoe size it fits
- Ankle joint type and adjustment, if articulated
- Straps, padding and liners, and whether spare liners are supplied
- Quantity, destination country and the delivery terms you want (for example EXW, FOB or CIF).
Documents to ask for
Buyers usually ask for CE marking under the EU MDR or local registration and ISO 13485 for the maker; ISO 22523 covers requirements for external orthoses.
Certificates and registrations belong to the product and its manufacturer. We check them with you against the rules of your market before any order.
Can a prefabricated AFO replace a custom-made one?
For many short-term uses a prefabricated AFO fits well and is cheaper. Users with deformity, swelling or long-term needs are often fitted with a custom-made device by an orthotist.
Send us the specification and quantity. We compare manufacturers in China and reply with options, lead times and the documents that come with each product. NJMC sources and checks; it does not manufacture.