Dee’s Year-end List of Unique Drop Foot Solutions

When many people think of AFO’s, they picture the rigid or carbon fiber type solutions that have a footplate, with a rod that comes out of the shoe leading to a cuff around the upper shin area.? While this design works for numerous individuals, there are some that struggle with the rigid qualities.? I am one of them.

I've been on a mission to find more dynamic, softer options for everyone, everywhere around the world.? I want to help find solutions for people that, like me,? struggle to find devices that are not so “hard” yet offer support, safety, and mobility for a variety of activities.

I am excited that there continues to be self adjusting devices which I love for my ever changing fatigue levels throughout the day.? No need to make an appointment with a clinician for adjustments; just turn a dial and you’re done! Yippee!

This is a list I’ve compiled (in alphabetical order) of unique devices that I’ve personally experienced.? Not all are perfect, so I wanted to try to include a quick pro and con for each.? I included prices if available, but always check the websites for current prices, discounts and promotions..

Please remember that most of these are not actually considered “braces” and will probably not be covered by insurance…..

Elevate Movement Sstep:

Description: This is a soft, adjustable and waterproof sock that lifts your foot when turning the dial

Estimated Cost: $200

Pro: Works with most footwear or no footwear

Con: The straps and buckle at the top might get caught or present a bit of bulge when wearing tapered pants

https://dropfoot.com/

Moveo ExoAnkle:

Description: This is an adjustable device that attaches to the outside of shoe or foot

Estimated Cost: $180

Pro:Works with most footwear or no footwear

Con:The strap that goes under the shoe/foot seems thin which might wear out from being stepped on after continued use

https://www.moveowalks.com/en/exoankle-en/

Ossur Foot-up:

Description: This is an external device that attaches to the laces of a shoe.

Estimated Cost: $55

Pro: Stays out of the shoe!

Con: Only works with footwear with laces

https://www.ossur.com/en-us/bracing-and-supports/foot-and-ankle/foot-up

SaeboStep:

Description: This is an adjustable external device that attaches to hooks which you screw into your shoes

Estimated Cost: $200

Pro: The cuff closes with a magnetic clasp making this very easy to don

Con: If the dial on the side gets bumped (car doors) the cuff dislodges.? ?

https://www.saebo.com/collections/saebostep-foot-leg-therapy/products/saebostep\

SubioMed Inserts: *

Description: These are dynamic suspension orthotics that you insert into extra depth (not to be confused with width) shoes

Pro:. No pole/rod sticking out of your shoe or up your leg

Con: Some of the extra depth shoes tend to weigh a bit more.

https://www.subiomed.com/

Turbomed Xtern: *

Description:This is a rigid brace that resembles the standard type AFO’s, but, attaches to the outside of your shoe

Pro: No bothersome footplate or rod protruding out of your shoe

Con: requires shoes with groves, however, they now have heel bumpers you can screw into your shoe if it doesn’t have a grove

https://turbomedorthotics.com/

Turtlebrace: *

Description: This is a custom brace that can be remolded hundreds of times

Pro: Duh, it can be remolded hundreds of times

Con: the life cycle of this brace is between 4-6 months.

https://turtlebrace.com/en/product/ankle/

• Clinician assistance recommended and therefore costs will vary

There are a couple more options I would like to mention.? These I have NOT tried….

Dictus Band: https://www.dictusband.com/

FlexAFO:? https://www.flintrehab.com/product/afo/

It is good to have options!!!!!!

I am not a medical professional.? I am a person that will require mobility solutions for daily life until I transition to a wheelchair.? Always consult a medical professional before trying any of the devices included in this post. For specific details, please visit the websites and/or reach out directly to the manufacturer.

Elevate Movement Moveo Walks ?ssur Saebo, Inc. Turbomed Orthotics Turtlebrace