A common complication if an AFO is ill-fitting?

A common complication if an AFO is ill-fitting?

• A. Pressure ulcers or skin breakdown under the device
• B. Increased elbow range of motion
• C. Improved gait
• D. Reduced joint stiffness

Answer: (A)

Ill-fitting ankle-foot orthoses commonly cause pressure-related skin injury beneath the device. When a brace fits too tightly, has rough edges, or lacks adequate padding, it concentrates pressure on bony areas and skin that bears the brace during walking. Constant friction and moisture from sweating can compromise skin integrity, especially over the ankles and malleoli, leading to redness, irritation, breakdown, and even ulcers. This makes skin breakdown under the AFO the most likely and preventable complication. To prevent it, ensure proper sizing and alignment, use appropriate padding or linings, and inspect the skin daily for any redness or sores. Reassess fit if swelling, weight change, or gait problems occur, and address any hotspots promptly. Other options don’t fit the typical complication pattern: an ill-fitting AFO doesn’t inherently increase elbow range of motion, and while a well-fitted device can improve gait, ill fit is more likely to worsen comfort and function rather than directly improve gait or reduce joint stiffness.

Ill-fitting ankle-foot orthoses commonly cause pressure-related skin injury beneath the device. When a brace fits too tightly, has rough edges, or lacks adequate padding, it concentrates pressure on bony areas and skin that bears the brace during walking. Constant friction and moisture from sweating can compromise skin integrity, especially over the ankles and malleoli, leading to redness, irritation, breakdown, and even ulcers. This makes skin breakdown under the AFO the most likely and preventable complication.

To prevent it, ensure proper sizing and alignment, use appropriate padding or linings, and inspect the skin daily for any redness or sores. Reassess fit if swelling, weight change, or gait problems occur, and address any hotspots promptly.

Other options don’t fit the typical complication pattern: an ill-fitting AFO doesn’t inherently increase elbow range of motion, and while a well-fitted device can improve gait, ill fit is more likely to worsen comfort and function rather than directly improve gait or reduce joint stiffness.