Thank you again. I’ve been watching your videos since my stroke. It will be my three year stroke anniversary in March. You have been a godsend since I can’t afford physical therapy. You give me hope. I can’t tell you how much It means to me. ❤️
Thanks for explaining the different cases, my experience after a stroke is that you should try to fix it as much as possible. I had a very small ankle movement, my orthosis was holding me back, I was persistent, walking with my leg turned to the side, but also slightly raising my foot. I practiced on the stairs and the effort paid off, now I am perfecting my gait. You should not give up, fight to the maximum.
I have MS. And have been dealing with foot drop and inversion for years. I just recently made the decision to get an AFO to try and help. I was tired of tripping over my foot. It was impacting my ability to do normal things. It took me over 3 years. And a great physical therapist to help me make that decision.
I can not repeat this enough, you are a rare therapist,you get it and understand the problems possibly like many therapists do not. Unfortunately in my experience there is a lack of good therapist out there, 1st I live in an area that is far remodeled from a large city. 2ndI have only come to this realization about therapist by watching your great videos. You young lady are a very rare type of therapist over the past 14 years I have been to many clinics but after watching you I realize that some therapist were not very good, some were very good.unfortunately with this rampant covid of biblical proportions, I will not go outside my house for therapy and they tell me ,I do not qualify for in home therapy, well I cannot afford to pay for therapy myself, so you are my therapist. I have purchased many items that you have suggested like, therapist table, the small stool, with the handles and some other things
I use brace on left lower leg, which has helped me to walk without foot turning inward. I feel like I want to eventually remove it and walk without it. I am left side paralyzed from stroke. Hemi-walker in right hand to be upright and walk. Thank you Tara as always and your insights are very inspirational!
I had 2 spine surgeries and I have a drop foot only on my right side. I had a fatty tumor on my spine and I removed it. My A f o is helping me so much And yes bracing is the way to go. I been walking better ever since I been wearing my brace.its ugly lol but I dont care who sees it lol. I'm 44 and living my life. Watching your videos has been helping me so much.i appreciate you ..Thank you
I also have a afo I have a custom made one from a place called Tilliges in MN. I have moderate nerve damage and foot drop so I have to wear the AFO indefinitely, but it's so uncomfortable and hurts every time I walk. I can't talk long walks, if I do my lower back will have shooting pain. Just wondering is this normal? I mean the damn thing is so uncomfortable, you're foot is literally laying on plastic. Do you have any of these problems or or are you perfectly mobile with you're afo? I mean every time I take a step my foot is in pain.
I ordered and received the economical AFO. It is so much lighter than my custom Ottobock carbon fiber. The stem of the lighter brace is on the back so it doesn’t create a bulge on the side of the shoe. I was also able to move back to my regular shoe size. I was using shoes that are two sizes to big to accommodate the Ottobock. More comfortable to move my leg.
But I understand drop foot never recovers right? I’m so impressed with your videos so practical and useful . I’m a big advocate of exercise and follow all the exercises you tell through your video . I see results . I have been following hip strengthening exercise told by you I see the difference and improvement in stability . Thank you thank you . 🙏🏻
Physical therapy can help, but never fully correct it. I've had drop foot for 10 years now n have been bracing for 4 years so far. I wish I didn't wait so long to get AFOs. I reccomend getting and using them asap.
I’m 3 years post stroke and I have asked 4 PT’s if I should wear my brace while I’m doing my exercises. This is the first place I’ve heard a clear answer.
I braced at the begining after a stroke when 1st getting back on my feet. The afo really helped me stabilize my drop foot. I did intensive therapy with a whole leg AFO, and swedish knee cage, they helped 100% but the leg, foot, and knee where weak after rehab, so I began working the effected leg and foot without the AFO, yes I do have both drop foot and spasticity on the effected side, (uncontrolled clutching of toes) the affected side was very weak and noodley. I am now using an ankle brace which helps my drop foot, is light weight, and really helps pick up my toes. I cannot find a location for botox treatment but I'm still on the hunt and I will never stop working to improve. "THE SKY IS THE LIMIT"
Btw u are giving alot of inspiration my patient works hard but needs alot inspiration you explain so well and all of your tips have allowed me to help her to stand and it's just amazing the progress I have made with her . Thank you I wish we could come see you in person. I think that I can help her to walk again eventually, I wouldn't know how to correctly help her without your videos .
My daughter is 12 with a brain AVM. Over the past few years she’s had hemiparesis. Lately she’s been stumbling over her toes. She Already doesn’t have full range of motion in her ankle and relies on lifting her knees in order to be able to walk. I appreciate your explanation of foot drop because it sounds like that’s what she has. Her orthopedist doesn’t recommend an afo because of her age and social whatnot with her peers, but this is good information for me to file away for the future. Thank your for your videos
Thanks for watching and for commenting!! Just curious, why is an orthopedist making recommendations for an ankle problem that is the result of an AVM? Generally speaking, a physiatrist and/or neurologist working with a neuro PT would be the best case scenerio for providing you with options on how to manage your daughters ankle/foot problem taking into consideration her age, hobbies, activities and her preferences/values (what is most important to her). I hope that helps!
thanks for your response. I don’t live in the US and under socialized medicine things work differently. My daughter doesn’t have a physiatrist or a neuro pt. She has the same pt that she’s been working with for years. Because of her age she falls between the cracks. She too old for the pediatric clinics and too young for the adult clinics. There’s no one to talk to and I’m left navigating this vast sea in my own ( in a language that is not my mother tongue!!) I think there are only physiatrists working in the hospital (honestly, I’ve never heard of one before) but now that I know what they are I’ll be sure to speak to her pediatrician and see what he says (her neurologist is 2 hrs away and that hospital is not a realistic option for weekly therapy) I really appreciate all your informative videos. Is gives me names & key words, that I can then research and get a better understanding of what she might be experiencing.
@@yzar007 Thank you for responding. That all makes sense. I am quite ignorant to the socialized medicine "system" but as far as 12/13 year olds "falling through the cracks" is something that also happens in the US healthcare system. All that being said, I am so glad that these videos help you to know what types of information to search for. Hopefully, this video might shed some light on the benefits of an AFO 😊. Let me know if you have any other topics I have not yet covered. AVM and stroke have many similarities when it comes to movement problems.
one more thing, In my opinion AVM might be better treated by a neuro PT who treats adults (since it is not the same thing as a brain injury that occurs at birth). I know you don't have a huge selection but if you had the choice between a peds PT and an PT who treats adults, I would choose the PT who treats adults :) I hope that helps!
I have CIDP (chronic inflammatory demylanating polyneuropathy, a more sinister sister of GBS) as well as joint instability of my ankles and right knee. When I have exacerbations of CIDP (symptoms that mimics GBS in its behavior/patterns) I develop what I call flipper feet otherwise known as drop foot. I thank the gods that I respond SUPER well to the acute dosing of IVIG (5 doses in 5 days) and as long as I get my first dose of the acute dosing regimen before I lose complete control of my knees then by day/dose 4, I have control of my feet back along with proper sensation being back where the sensations belong (as in when the exacerbation first starts I feel my toes/feet/ankles in the joint above the loss of function/sensation). This ends up meaning that once I lose my feet I then will feel the floor in my knees. Of course, my neurologist has told me that the brain and spinal cord are similar to a computer that is able to modify itself as functions are altered. So, I have since learned to function with the weird placements of sensations and functions and accept that sensation and function will return to normal status quo once all feeling comes back. As for my braces- I have an AFO for my left with a dorsiflexion assist joint for my ankle and a KAFO for my right with drop hinges that I have secured to not drop for my knee and a dorsiflexion assist joint for my ankle. I have also learned that instead of wearing the typical bracing socks under my braces, I wear leggings (brand is No Boundaries) that I get at Walmart. I then stitch about a 5.5 inch length (1 inch wide) of elastic at the ankles to prevent the leggings from riding up and annoying the living crap out of me. The leggings are quite skin tight while not cutting into my skin should I have any edema occur, along with protecting the thigh of my left leg from the plastic and metal parts of my brace for the right leg. Not to mention that the prints/colors of the leggings go with nearly ALL of my shirts in addition to being of a similar feel texture wise to that of a jersey knit or tshirt fabric (I have some tactile adversions courtesy of autism spectrum disorder, CRPS [chronic pain condition) and allodynia [a type of pain sensation from objects and activities that cause pain that shouldn't]).
To my Stroke Recovery Groups Around the World (SS), A great find ''Spasticity vs. Foot drop.'' THANK YOU AND KUDO'S TO DR. TARA TOBIAS!! As each stroke survivor is different from another, learn the difference between Spasticity and dropped foot. You will save yourself a lot of money $$ if you do proper research on your injury from your stroke. Otherwise, you will join the many stroke survivors who have spent thousands of $$ on the wrong devices, ankle supports etc. etc. I hope you find Dr.Tara Tobias videos helpful especially her recommended excercises. My recommendations is to NEVER STOP EXCERCISING, RIDE YOUR RECUMBENT BIKE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE!! Learn to do squats by holding onto the dresser with your power side. Remember, your legs are your power house which holds your weight. Be kind to them. SQUATS HAVE HELPED ME TREMENDOUSLY after I learned to stand away from my wheelchair. The Goal is to re wire the brain, repetition is the key. And remember, Safety first. I will post more videos as I find them to hopefully answer your questions. 9 years post stroke (left side paralysis) Christine Perrot.
Overuse injury! First time I have heard the term. Definitely will have to have it ready the next time I am explaining to someone why I still wear an AFO 6 years later. Because I still have spasticity (due to not stretching and exercising enough).
Hello Dr. Tabias.I thank you very much for this video. Some 7 years ago I had a stroke left side brain injury. My anger was with the medical field for reasons of lack of communication. Language barrier. aka I don't speak medical. I Speak Spanish and English they could not explain why Iwas to wear a leg brace and for how long? With them it was toning issues?I I have gone through to 2 rehab hospitals and 5 PCPs. But you have been the only one who has given me understanding why I wear and need my leg brace. I thank God Almighty for you. he directed me you your channel.
I have a intramedullary dermoid cyst in my T-spine and now have RLE spasticity. My SCI has changed my life considerably. I have really bad right foot inversion and drop foot. I finally got an AFO and it's helped. I'm also in favor baclofen and Dysport (to a degree).
I tore my ACL,LCL and pcl as well as destroying 18" of the nerve that enables you to lift your foot ,2 years ago among other things. I bought my first AFO about a year ago and hated it for quite awhile. It was painful to wear all day at first so I would take it off and then notice my knee was hurting from compensating. I realized the benefits and started buying foot wear that was comfortable with the AFO. It finally broke today, first thing in the morning and I had to work all day without it. I was walking slower, dragging my foot so I wouldn't trip after my knee started hurting. Long story short is I wouldn't go a day without one ever again and even keep a backup or 2
😃🧡😃 Thank you very much Dr. Tara for this comprehensive information. I wished they had given that to me in rehab 2018 instead of hard selling their products (which I resisted). Have a beautiful Sunday with your nice doggie! 🙏💛🙏
Hi Nina! Sadly, I used to be that therapist that tried hard to "sell" what I believed was best for my patients. I have learned it is best to just give all the options with the risks and the benefits. That being said, I hope that your brace has helped you to experience many of the benefits and avoid the "risks" (of not bracing).🙃 Chico and I sending love to you in Germany.
@@rehabhqofficial I think that you are totally different. You weigh all arguments and you educate as much as possible. I wished I had had you at that time 👍💛👍
Thank you doctor. Very helpful as always. Will definitely talk to my therapists about whether we should try some dorsiflection by adjusting the hinge on my articulated AFO. Thanks again
I have ms and use the Dictus foot brace. It helps me walk functionally and work to improve neuroplasticity. I see it as a tool that works with the exercises and massaging to improve …
Dr Tara. Ligament Reconstruction of the Ankle. Post surgery? I underwent this surgery 4 years ago and I'm still working my way to better and better health. I searched long and far for videos discussing post surgery exercises. There were no videos on the rehab procedure. You might find the topic worthwhile for a video. Thank you for the videos that you have put out thus far.
Thank you very much for your valuable videos Dr. Tobias! Can you please comment on FES Walkaide II for MS? I just got it for a trial of 1 month and I wonder how to manage it? Neither of my medical team have any experience of this device. Thank you very much ❤️
I've done bracing, afo and others electrical stimulation devices, however, my foot seemed to go from total foot drop to spastic. My hips were hurting and with practice I was able to correct to bad rotation and hip hike, but mt foot still tends to roll out and never allows me to completely flatten making it difficult to walk without a claw like movement
Done it all in disappointed so I don't do anything other than a cane unfamiliar environments I don't use anything at home but the cane topper is Kool I must admit
I really like your videos and I think they are very helpful. I would like to see some pictures of the articulated braces that you talk about. I have a SCI and major spasticity pointing my foot down.
Thank you for all that useful info! I have a carbon AFO that I use when walking alot due to Spinal Compression resulting in foot drop. you were mentioning knee popping back when standing.....I now have that and no one seems to know what to do. This knee was replaced 10 years ago and is terrific! What is the name of this condition? Thank you Dr. Tara!
Would value your thoughts on Bioness or Walkaid products. I've started using Bioness to replace or supplement my AFO. due to stroke. I grew tired of the AFO everyday. The Bioness when calibrated correctly does give me some freedom of my gate. have you worked with patients that are using a similar device? What are pros and cons? It is very expensive if having to pay out of pocket.
we have the Bioness 300 for my 15 year old daughter (stroke) and it has been so freeing to get out of the custom AFO (hinged at the ankle). The AFO is hot, tiresome, and causes a callous because she walks on the side of her foot due to spasticity. We also get Botox which helps with that. But through Tara's video I can appreciate the use of the AFO and perhaps its all situational based on what activity you are doing? I like how the Bioness can be placed on "training" mode and she can be stemmed while relaxing. Her muscles still being activiated....
Hi Tara, I listened with interest to your discussion on bracing. I was given a brace (carbon fiber) after rehab at a facility. It helped me to use a walker, with spasticity in my leg and foot. After about a year, I read about a different type of brace to lift my foot, using the Saebo step, and am satisfied this is better for my calf muscles, and walking and balance training. Thank you for talking objectively about this. Michael White
I am almost in my 3 years of my stroke. I am still having hypertension to my knee on the left. I do believe that my Therapist is giving only what MEDICARE is willing to pay for. So I still having problems improving the hypertension. I known there must be better AFOs out there, then what I have. But the cost makes a difference.
Although I feel that I need my afo to walk, I also recently started using a futuro, over-the-counter ankle brace due to its size and the fact that my left calf has all but completely disappeared since my stroke 3.5 yrs ago. I've been wearing it inside the house only for now. Unfortunately, I .need to use my cane if I'm not wearing my afo. The question, is it necessary that my afo come all the way up my calf,or can it be cut down to slightly above the ankle? Love you and your videos! Thank you so much for all the immense help you give us all!
Hello, I have Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia type 5a. Just wanted to let you know of another category of people with gait issues watching your videos! It sounds like to me from your video, I should be getting AFOs. My hesitancy is relying on it. My thought process is that I will somehow keep walking as long as I can without assistance, even though I have difficulty walking. It sounds like from your video I'm doing more harm than good. I'm 41, and started a workout plan to strengthen my legs, hips, glutes and to work on my balance. But all that will never stop my spasticity. I do take baclofen.
I have MS and wear an afo sometimes but i always get the thought that if i wear it too often then my muscles will depend on the afo lifting my foot as opposed to my muscles doing it which is why i dont wear it all the time.
Thanks, I've had a stroke in 2013. I have two high-quality (I wear one at a time) AFO (right side affected). I wear brace most of the time, but they do not lift my foot enough. Sometimes I stumble. Any recommendations to lift the foot higher?
Thanks for sharing! A "high quality" brace does not necessarily mean it is the right brace for you. Generally speaking, if a brace is not lifting the foot, it means it is NOT the brace "design" is not correct. To get the best brace for your exact situation it is best to have a therapist and orthotist work together. I hope that helps!
Do you have any gideos on how parents can support their kids struggling with drop foot and learning to walk again? My teen is tecovering after accident severed peroneal nerve and her repair surgery. Just got out of knee immobilizer, wears dorsaflexion boot at all times, fitting for custom AF O is next week. Any caregiver videos to encourage PT and AFOs?
What about EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME HYPERMOBILE TYPE ? Here in Quebec Canada we have universal healthcare, we just have to ask our orthopedist for a prescription, so we get a totally free custom made brace , no needs to be pre-approved, nothing to sign, we will never receive a bill…if it need an adjustment, it’s free , if it need to be fix it’s free too .
Got out my (neoprene ankle/foot) brace/wrap. The stiff underfoot section is under the toes and down the outside section. 🦶Basically the arch section and the heel is not supported. My wonky walking pattern is that I twist my foot (right) to make push off to be completely from my big toe. I can move/wiggle the other four toes but they are not functional in the walking motion. Yesterday I began “toe ups” to try teaching my foot and muscles proper walking motion. Do you have any other suggestions for proper foot/toe exercises that might help? Yes I have calf and ankle spacisity, which I’m working on, but I also need to get those four toes functional. Weakness gets worse as you move further away from the big toe. Hoping you can picture my issue and the weird foot twisting I do. Many thanks!!!
@@jersonsoriano3706 time helps. Stretches every night. I wore a night splint every night to keep my leg from hyperextending. I also do Pilates. I go to the gym and do leg workouts. I don’t know which one was the best. I think it’s just a combination of everything that I do.
U mentioned putting on the brace so it would be dorsi flexed ( idk if I am saying that correctly) wearing the brace because the ankle rolls ,Her therapist has always said walking was never a goal ( not her goal ) I am just the caregiver and since myself and my patient have been watching your channel ,my patient loves to watch you ! ,we have made great improvements in her rehab ! Now her therapist is pregnant and even less interested , they wont take her to get fitted for a brace because of covid buy ordered her a soft one n it helps ! Can u explain the dorsi pattern or do u have anither video I should watch that explains that ?
I would like to hear more about bracing I’m 2 1/2 years stroke survivor and I’m going back an forth with my afo I was walking before using it and with all this brain fog 😶🌫️…I’m a a lost it has helped with my walking but for some reason I think it recess me so now I’m going back an forth with wearing it now but when I really need to get somewhere I put it on
What happens if you have both? There are times I can't even pick up my foot at all and it drags. And because how I walk it half circles on the floor as it wont pick up no matter how hard I try. But I also have my foot just come down ...like my toes go downwards all the times as I walk as my ankle rolls.
Thanks Doc...I am a MS patient and on a wheelchair.....Taking my physiotherapy sessions daily....like standing on a walker with AFO on...but those AFO are helping me for not twisting my both ankles while standing...AFO are too heavy for my weak leg muscles....Can you share any exercises for strengthening ankle muscles. Waiting and Thanks
Hi, I don't have drop foot but a heel rolling outward when walking. I had a AFO custom made and it is helping a lot. How long do I have to wear this to correct heel rolling issue on my left foot? My Surgeon says the brain will re-learn to walk with better gait. I have abnormal gait right after surgery now almost 4 years later.
I had hemografic stroke in 20007. I have been wearing a custom a go that is now hinged! The last several months my knee hyperextends my spacicity is getting worse
Hi Tara...Great Video. I had G.B.S. in the early 60's. Braces were not thought about then. I'm 73 yrs. old I still have issues with foot drop. Is it to late to brace now ?
I have pretty severe nerve damage and foot drop. My entire leg is weak feeling. Can I strengthen this leg or will the nerve damage keep it from getting stronger? David
I have Fabry disease.Due lacunar infarcts I have foot drop and arch drop(Sciatic nerve popliteal paresis simptom).I have inserts in a shoes but I still thinking to try some afo because sometime I still dropping.What is Ur opinion.I am engineer and sometimes I have to travel.Would be a benefit or stay just with inserts?
In a previous video you mention contracture. I think my son has it in his hamstrings and soleus. He can only extend his leg about 60 and his foot points down when I have him in a harness with a ceiling lift. Can contractures be fixed?
hi I have severe spasticity in my left calf from stroke 20 yrs ago I recently purchased a night splint, should I be able to walk in the splint, example if I have splint on during the day and need to use the rest room. it does have a thick rubber pad on the bottom.normally I am able to get around with a cane.
Due to frequent tripping, Fatigue, SOB and neuropathy. my Doctor ordered a Rollater. Upon my PT evaluation my gait was described as having “Increased trunk flexion with decreased trailing of bilateral lower limbs”. My physiatrist ordered an Knee height AFO” for stablelization. He actually believes that I need a brace from the hip down but does not think I would have the stamina to use the brace. Have used braces most of my life due to CP. Is the development of this gait a combination of factors or is it a result of the diabetic neuropathy? My biggest goal is to maintain mobility but the neuropathy is making it very difficult.
TY for sharing After I fractured my foot then drop foot kicked in, I've never had any therapy for foot. PT just won't help me in this area I just want to regain some mobility
Hello there, just started watching your videos on 4-14-22 I had a stroke in 1999 and from that I have weakness on my right side, walk with a limp and have foot. Over the years I've worn different braces. For a few months now my foot has been locking up. So now doctor is saying that my foot lower part of leg is spastic. So could you give me some suggestions on brace that I need to be wearing, preferably one that's not so bulky and comes up to your knees. Also exercises that I can do to help rewire my brain and for the spasticity. Thank you so kindly.
Thanks for this informative video! I recently was assessed by an orthotist and the AFOs she had did not work as the spasticity kept causing my heel to lift out of my shoe! My foot drop is not too bad but my knee is buckling. Do you think a custom AFO would be better than trying to treat the spasticity? Thanks for any thoughts on this!
Hi my name is Ken I am 8 years post stroke and still hemipalic I discovered that I walk better without anything however I do use a cane it's got a Kool skull cane topper so if I somehow get healed I will still use it for a fashion statement
Does spasticity and foot drop cause the whole foot to feel very inflamed? I often have to rest the bottom of my foot with and ice pack. same with ankle. Is this ok to do?
I have spasticity in my lower body and wear knee braces regularly to help with walking and standing. I feel that I need to wear them most of the time as it’s alleviates knee pain. I also stretch and do as much strength work that I can. My question is, is it bad for the muscles to wear braces so much? Other than when I’m in bed, should I have periods of time during the day where I try not to wear them so my muscles don’t get to use to them?
Hello Dr. Tobias, My left foot drops to the left. I can pull it up and down but the toes dropdown. What muscles are weak and need to be strengthened. And what exercises would be best for this? I have improved a lot since my back surgery as I had drop foot in both feet. I also have tightness in both feet that feel like a tightened rubber band.
My AFO I'm going to have made on May 11th 2021 for Dcrsiflexicn Assist and a Hinged Ankle Joint with Lateral Ankle Support and Toe Plate Extrrndedto to stop My toes from curling. I've been going Botox 11 months with a Neurologist. For my Ankle and toes that are curled in. I've been in 11 months Therapy at St Elizabeth Hospital in KY. I'm learning to drive. I'm 47 and need my independence I'm 90 % of healing from my Stroke my AFO now doesn't always allow me to have proper Ankle movement. Should I work on making my Ankle stronger and think it's going to come back like my right side of my body has. Should I brace with my new AFO I'm having made in May when I drive take off my brace. My Podiatrist is the Dr that wrote the prescription for the new AFO. Blessings Wendie
If you have foot drop and spasticity what brace do you recommend? I have Parkinson’s Disease and dystonia that makes my foot move. Is that the same as spasticity?
Ihad stroke last November 2021. ( can walk but my right toe moves and its own. It sometimes points up, making it painful to walk Now i tie the toe and the roe next to it so it would not move much. What do you suggest I do?
What can you do if you have a brace and still have you big toe pointing down when you walk. Also why does pain develop that starts at outside of ankle and shoots up to buttock muscle when AFO is removed. Help Thanks for all you do.
These are excellent questions! Generally speaking, if someone has a toe that points down, a full foot plate is recommended. If someone has a full foot plate and the foot still points down, generally speaking, a toe separator might be of some value (link: amzn.to/3t9Z0w2); Regarding part two of this comment, walking without an AFO can cause the pain you are describing if the foot is rolling to the outside and the knee is popping backward. I hope that answers your questions!
Hi Ryan! Thanks for the question. Yes, long term use of an AFO does cause some atrophy. That is why I made this video. It is important to know the risks AND the benefits of wearing an AFO. In my opinion, ankle spasticity that is left to persist (without an AFO) has more deleterious impact down the road versus the impact of muscle atrophy. I hope that helps!
I want to ask I have a problem of ankle rolling while walking due to my spasticity on involved side, kindly suggest me exercise for it. I keep falling most of the time and because of that I have developed a fear that I’m going to trip .
It has been 5 years since my stroke and I just got an AFO. My knee was hurting the more i walk the more it hurt . When I went to get me botox shots my Dr said I think you need an AFO. The AFO helps but after a month it started making a sore on my upper shin. Is it possible my spasticity is over powering my AFO? It is a custom made brace. Are there spasticity exercises for people who have a new AFO but stroke was over 5 years ago and major spasicity. I listen to you all the time and you really help me.
Thank you for your helpful tips! My AFO [i have spasticity not drop foot] is ill-fitting and my foot is now supinating and walking has become problematic as I have fallen several times. If you can offer any of your wise words, it would be GREATLY APPECIATED
Hi Taylor. Thanks for watching and for sharing your story. This video pretty much covers "general guidelines". If you live in the US, you should be able to get back into PT who can work with an orthotist (person who made the brace) to have your brace modified. I hope that helps!
I had a stroke two years ago, did not want an AFO, but looks like I have a drop foot with supenation. It doesn't look like I have Spasticity. Is this possible? My toes curl sometimes if I stand only on my affected foot.
![Top 9 Drop Foot Braces [Best Foot Drop Treatments & AFO Braces]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Dc6wwpbDwWk/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you again. I’ve been watching your videos since my stroke. It will be my three year stroke anniversary in March. You have been a godsend since I can’t afford physical therapy. You give me hope. I can’t tell you how much It means to me. ❤️
Thank you for watching and sharing this. I am so glad to know the videos are helping you 😊
Thanks for explaining the different cases, my experience after a stroke is that you should try to fix it as much as possible. I had a very small ankle movement, my orthosis was holding me back, I was persistent, walking with my leg turned to the side, but also slightly raising my foot. I practiced on the stairs and the effort paid off, now I am perfecting my gait. You should not give up, fight to the maximum.
I have MS. And have been dealing with foot drop and inversion for years. I just recently made the decision to get an AFO to try and help. I was tired of tripping over my foot. It was impacting my ability to do normal things. It took me over 3 years. And a great physical therapist to help me make that decision.
I can not repeat this enough, you are a rare therapist,you get it and understand the problems possibly like many therapists do not. Unfortunately in my experience there is a lack of good therapist out there, 1st I live in an area that is far remodeled from a large city. 2ndI have only come to this realization about therapist by watching your great videos. You young lady are a very rare type of therapist over the past 14 years I have been to many clinics but after watching you I realize that some therapist were not very good, some were very good.unfortunately with this rampant covid of biblical proportions, I will not go outside my house for therapy and they tell me ,I do not qualify for in home therapy, well I cannot afford to pay for therapy myself, so you are my therapist. I have purchased many items that you have suggested like, therapist table, the small stool, with the handles and some other things
I use brace on left lower leg, which has helped me to walk without foot turning inward. I feel like I want to eventually remove it and walk without it. I am left side paralyzed from stroke. Hemi-walker in right hand to be upright and walk. Thank you Tara as always and your insights are very inspirational!
I had 2 spine surgeries and I have a drop foot only on my right side.
I had a fatty tumor on my spine and I removed it.
My A f o is helping me so much
And yes bracing is the way to go.
I been walking better ever since I been wearing my brace.its ugly lol but I dont care who sees it lol.
I'm 44 and living my life.
Watching your videos has been helping me so much.i appreciate you ..Thank you
I also have a afo I have a custom made one from a place called Tilliges in MN. I have moderate nerve damage and foot drop so I have to wear the AFO indefinitely, but it's so uncomfortable and hurts every time I walk. I can't talk long walks, if I do my lower back will have shooting pain. Just wondering is this normal? I mean the damn thing is so uncomfortable, you're foot is literally laying on plastic. Do you have any of these problems or or are you perfectly mobile with you're afo? I mean every time I take a step my foot is in pain.
I ordered and received the economical AFO. It is so much lighter than my custom Ottobock carbon fiber. The stem of the lighter brace is on the back so it doesn’t create a bulge on the side of the shoe. I was also able to move back to my regular shoe size. I was using shoes that are two sizes to big to accommodate the Ottobock. More comfortable to move my leg.
But I understand drop foot never recovers right? I’m so impressed with your videos so practical and useful . I’m a big advocate of exercise and follow all the exercises you tell through your video . I see results . I have been following hip strengthening exercise told by you I see the difference and improvement in stability . Thank you thank you . 🙏🏻
Physical therapy can help, but never fully correct it. I've had drop foot for 10 years now n have been bracing for 4 years so far. I wish I didn't wait so long to get AFOs. I reccomend getting and using them asap.
I’m 3 years post stroke and I have asked 4 PT’s if I should wear my brace while I’m doing my exercises. This is the first place I’ve heard a clear answer.
I braced at the begining after a stroke when 1st getting back on my feet. The afo really helped me stabilize my drop foot. I did intensive therapy with a whole leg AFO, and swedish knee cage, they helped 100% but the leg, foot, and knee where weak after rehab, so I began working the effected leg and foot without the AFO, yes I do have both drop foot and spasticity on the effected side, (uncontrolled clutching of toes) the affected side was very weak and noodley. I am now using an ankle brace which helps my drop foot, is light weight, and really helps pick up my toes. I cannot find a location for botox treatment but I'm still on the hunt and I will never stop working to improve. "THE SKY IS THE LIMIT"
Thanks for this video. You are exactly the kind of professional that I want on my medical team.
Btw u are giving alot of inspiration my patient works hard but needs alot inspiration you explain so well and all of your tips have allowed me to help her to stand and it's just amazing the progress I have made with her . Thank you I wish we could come see you in person. I think that I can help her to walk again eventually, I wouldn't know how to correctly help her without your videos .
What a great video Dr Tara! Now I have better understanding of wearing my brace! Thank you for your help!🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Daniela, I am so glad this video helped you! Thank you for watching and for sharing. :)
My daughter is 12 with a brain AVM. Over the past few years she’s had hemiparesis. Lately she’s been stumbling over her toes. She Already doesn’t have full range of motion in her ankle and relies on lifting her knees in order to be able to walk. I appreciate your explanation of foot drop because it sounds like that’s what she has. Her orthopedist doesn’t recommend an afo because of her age and social whatnot with her peers, but this is good information for me to file away for the future.
Thank your for your videos
Thanks for watching and for commenting!! Just curious, why is an orthopedist making recommendations for an ankle problem that is the result of an AVM? Generally speaking, a physiatrist and/or neurologist working with a neuro PT would be the best case scenerio for providing you with options on how to manage your daughters ankle/foot problem taking into consideration her age, hobbies, activities and her preferences/values (what is most important to her). I hope that helps!
thanks for your response. I don’t live in the US and under socialized medicine things work differently. My daughter doesn’t have a physiatrist or a neuro pt. She has the same pt that she’s been working with for years. Because of her age she falls between the cracks. She too old for the pediatric clinics and too young for the adult clinics. There’s no one to talk to and I’m left navigating this vast sea in my own ( in a language that is not my mother tongue!!)
I think there are only physiatrists working in the hospital (honestly, I’ve never heard of one before) but now that I know what they are I’ll be sure to speak to her pediatrician and see what he says (her neurologist is 2 hrs away and that hospital is not a realistic option for weekly therapy)
I really appreciate all your informative videos. Is gives me names & key words, that I can then research and get a better understanding of what she might be experiencing.
@@yzar007 Thank you for responding. That all makes sense. I am quite ignorant to the socialized medicine "system" but as far as 12/13 year olds "falling through the cracks" is something that also happens in the US healthcare system. All that being said, I am so glad that these videos help you to know what types of information to search for. Hopefully, this video might shed some light on the benefits of an AFO 😊. Let me know if you have any other topics I have not yet covered. AVM and stroke have many similarities when it comes to movement problems.
one more thing, In my opinion AVM might be better treated by a neuro PT who treats adults (since it is not the same thing as a brain injury that occurs at birth). I know you don't have a huge selection but if you had the choice between a peds PT and an PT who treats adults, I would choose the PT who treats adults :) I hope that helps!
@@rehabhqofficial thank you 💜
Thank you so much. My primary care dr. Will not approve further rehab 4 years post stroke since I am not making enough progress. You are my only hope.
I have CIDP (chronic inflammatory demylanating polyneuropathy, a more sinister sister of GBS) as well as joint instability of my ankles and right knee. When I have exacerbations of CIDP (symptoms that mimics GBS in its behavior/patterns) I develop what I call flipper feet otherwise known as drop foot. I thank the gods that I respond SUPER well to the acute dosing of IVIG (5 doses in 5 days) and as long as I get my first dose of the acute dosing regimen before I lose complete control of my knees then by day/dose 4, I have control of my feet back along with proper sensation being back where the sensations belong (as in when the exacerbation first starts I feel my toes/feet/ankles in the joint above the loss of function/sensation). This ends up meaning that once I lose my feet I then will feel the floor in my knees.
Of course, my neurologist has told me that the brain and spinal cord are similar to a computer that is able to modify itself as functions are altered. So, I have since learned to function with the weird placements of sensations and functions and accept that sensation and function will return to normal status quo once all feeling comes back.
As for my braces- I have an AFO for my left with a dorsiflexion assist joint for my ankle and a KAFO for my right with drop hinges that I have secured to not drop for my knee and a dorsiflexion assist joint for my ankle.
I have also learned that instead of wearing the typical bracing socks under my braces, I wear leggings (brand is No Boundaries) that I get at Walmart. I then stitch about a 5.5 inch length (1 inch wide) of elastic at the ankles to prevent the leggings from riding up and annoying the living crap out of me. The leggings are quite skin tight while not cutting into my skin should I have any edema occur, along with protecting the thigh of my left leg from the plastic and metal parts of my brace for the right leg. Not to mention that the prints/colors of the leggings go with nearly ALL of my shirts in addition to being of a similar feel texture wise to that of a jersey knit or tshirt fabric (I have some tactile adversions courtesy of autism spectrum disorder, CRPS [chronic pain condition) and allodynia [a type of pain sensation from objects and activities that cause pain that shouldn't]).
To my Stroke Recovery Groups Around the World (SS),
A great find ''Spasticity vs. Foot drop.'' THANK YOU AND KUDO'S TO DR. TARA TOBIAS!!
As each stroke survivor is different from another, learn the difference between Spasticity and dropped foot. You will save yourself a lot of money $$ if you do proper research on your injury from your stroke. Otherwise, you will join the many stroke survivors who have spent thousands of $$ on the wrong devices, ankle supports etc. etc. I hope you find Dr.Tara Tobias videos helpful especially her recommended excercises.
My recommendations is to NEVER STOP EXCERCISING, RIDE YOUR RECUMBENT BIKE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE!! Learn to do squats by holding onto the dresser with your power side. Remember, your legs are your power house which holds your weight. Be kind to them. SQUATS HAVE HELPED ME TREMENDOUSLY after I learned to stand away from my wheelchair. The Goal is to re wire the brain, repetition is the key. And remember, Safety first. I will post more videos as I find them to hopefully answer your questions. 9 years post stroke (left side paralysis) Christine Perrot.
Your channel is just excellent, thank you so much for making this content.
Overuse injury! First time I have heard the term. Definitely will have to have it ready the next time I am explaining to someone why I still wear an AFO 6 years later. Because I still have spasticity (due to not stretching and exercising enough).
Hello Dr. Tabias.I thank you very much for this video. Some 7 years ago I had a stroke left side brain injury. My anger was with the medical field for reasons of lack of communication. Language barrier. aka I don't speak medical. I Speak Spanish and English they could not explain why Iwas to wear a leg brace and for how long? With them it was toning issues?I I have gone through to 2 rehab hospitals and 5 PCPs. But you have been the only one who has given me understanding why I wear and need my leg brace. I thank God Almighty for you. he directed me you your channel.
I have a intramedullary dermoid cyst in my T-spine and now have RLE spasticity. My SCI has changed my life considerably. I have really bad right foot inversion and drop foot. I finally got an AFO and it's helped. I'm also in favor baclofen and Dysport (to a degree).
I tore my ACL,LCL and pcl as well as destroying 18" of the nerve that enables you to lift your foot ,2 years ago among other things. I bought my first AFO about a year ago and hated it for quite awhile. It was painful to wear all day at first so I would take it off and then notice my knee was hurting from compensating. I realized the benefits and started buying foot wear that was comfortable with the AFO. It finally broke today, first thing in the morning and I had to work all day without it. I was walking slower, dragging my foot so I wouldn't trip after my knee started hurting. Long story short is I wouldn't go a day without one ever again and even keep a backup or 2
😃🧡😃 Thank you very much Dr. Tara for this comprehensive information. I wished they had given that to me in rehab 2018 instead of hard selling their products (which I resisted). Have a beautiful Sunday with your nice doggie! 🙏💛🙏
Hi Nina! Sadly, I used to be that therapist that tried hard to "sell" what I believed was best for my patients. I have learned it is best to just give all the options with the risks and the benefits. That being said, I hope that your brace has helped you to experience many of the benefits and avoid the "risks" (of not bracing).🙃 Chico and I sending love to you in Germany.
@@rehabhqofficial I think that you are totally different. You weigh all arguments and you educate as much as possible. I wished I had had you at that time 👍💛👍
Thank you doctor. Very helpful as always. Will definitely talk to my therapists about whether we should try some dorsiflection by adjusting the hinge on my articulated AFO. Thanks again
I have ms and use the Dictus foot brace. It helps me walk functionally and work to improve neuroplasticity. I see it as a tool that works with the exercises and massaging to improve …
Dr Tara.
Ligament Reconstruction of the Ankle. Post surgery? I underwent this surgery 4 years ago and I'm still working my way to better and better health.
I searched long and far for videos discussing post surgery exercises. There were no videos on the rehab procedure. You might find the topic worthwhile for a video.
Thank you for the videos that you have put out thus far.
Thank you very much for your valuable videos Dr. Tobias! Can you please comment on FES Walkaide II for MS? I just got it for a trial of 1 month and I wonder how to manage it? Neither of my medical team have any experience of this device. Thank you very much ❤️
I've done bracing, afo and others electrical stimulation devices, however, my foot seemed to go from total foot drop to spastic. My hips were hurting and with practice I was able to correct to bad rotation and hip hike, but mt foot still tends to roll out and never allows me to completely flatten making it difficult to walk without a claw like movement
Done it all in disappointed so I don't do anything other than a cane unfamiliar environments I don't use anything at home but the cane topper is Kool I must admit
wonderful!! a great help , i'm going through the quite similar problem after my stroke.regards dr.Tara
I really like your videos and I think they are very helpful. I would like to see some pictures of the articulated braces that you talk about. I have a SCI and major spasticity pointing my foot down.
Thank you for all that useful info! I have a carbon AFO that I use when walking alot due to Spinal Compression resulting in foot drop. you were mentioning knee popping back when standing.....I now have that and no one seems to know what to do. This knee was replaced 10 years ago and is terrific! What is the name of this condition? Thank you Dr. Tara!
Would value your thoughts on Bioness or Walkaid products. I've started using Bioness to replace or supplement my AFO. due to stroke. I grew tired of the AFO everyday. The Bioness when calibrated correctly does give me some freedom of my gate. have you worked with patients that are using a similar device? What are pros and cons? It is very expensive if having to pay out of pocket.
we have the Bioness 300 for my 15 year old daughter (stroke) and it has been so freeing to get out of the custom AFO (hinged at the ankle). The AFO is hot, tiresome, and causes a callous because she walks on the side of her foot due to spasticity. We also get Botox which helps with that. But through Tara's video I can appreciate the use of the AFO and perhaps its all situational based on what activity you are doing? I like how the Bioness can be placed on "training" mode and she can be stemmed while relaxing. Her muscles still being activiated....
Hi Tara, I listened with interest to your discussion on bracing. I was given a brace (carbon fiber) after rehab at a facility. It helped me to use a walker, with spasticity in my leg and foot. After about a year, I read about a different type of brace to lift my foot, using the Saebo step, and am satisfied this is better for my calf muscles, and walking and balance training. Thank you for talking objectively about this.
Michael White
I am almost in my 3 years of my stroke. I am still having hypertension to my knee on the left. I do believe that my Therapist is giving only what MEDICARE is willing to pay for. So I still having problems improving the hypertension. I known there must be better AFOs out there, then what I have. But the cost makes a difference.
Please cover runners dystonia with curling toes and ankle.
Although I feel that I need my afo to walk, I also recently started using a futuro, over-the-counter ankle brace due to its size and the fact that my left calf has all but completely disappeared since my stroke 3.5 yrs ago. I've been wearing it inside the house only for now. Unfortunately, I .need to use my cane if I'm not wearing my afo. The question, is it necessary that my afo come all the way up my calf,or can it be cut down to slightly above the ankle? Love you and your videos! Thank you so much for all the immense help you give us all!
Hello, I have Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia type 5a. Just wanted to let you know of another category of people with gait issues watching your videos! It sounds like to me from your video, I should be getting AFOs. My hesitancy is relying on it. My thought process is that I will somehow keep walking as long as I can without assistance, even though I have difficulty walking. It sounds like from your video I'm doing more harm than good. I'm 41, and started a workout plan to strengthen my legs, hips, glutes and to work on my balance. But all that will never stop my spasticity. I do take baclofen.
Hi! I know this comment is old but I also have HSP! We don’t know what type at this point. I just got my AFO today and it was honestly just a relief.
I have MS and wear an afo sometimes but i always get the thought that if i wear it too often then my muscles will depend on the afo lifting my foot as opposed to my muscles doing it which is why i dont wear it all the time.
I have Fabry disease which is mimic of MS.I had foot drop and recovered but I am using AFO because my low leg is rotating and my arch also dropped
Can you have both? I cannot lift my foot, feel anything from mid thigh down and cramping. I think I have nerve damage too.
Hello, please help me.
Stroke. 27y/o. Thank you
Thanks, I've had a stroke in 2013. I have two high-quality (I wear one at a time) AFO (right side affected). I wear brace most of the time, but they do not lift my foot enough. Sometimes I stumble. Any recommendations to lift the foot higher?
Same here. They don't clear the floor high enough and end up being another thing dragging my leg down.
Thanks for sharing! A "high quality" brace does not necessarily mean it is the right brace for you. Generally speaking, if a brace is not lifting the foot, it means it is NOT the brace "design" is not correct. To get the best brace for your exact situation it is best to have a therapist and orthotist work together. I hope that helps!
Hi dr tobias yes show another video about exercise s with afo brace ty
Hi Janice! Thanks for this suggestion!
Do you have any gideos on how parents can support their kids struggling with drop foot and learning to walk again? My teen is tecovering after accident severed peroneal nerve and her repair surgery. Just got out of knee immobilizer, wears dorsaflexion boot at all times, fitting for custom AF O is next week. Any caregiver videos to encourage PT and AFOs?
Very great, how can I get/order bracing stuffs?
What about EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME HYPERMOBILE TYPE ?
Here in Quebec Canada we have universal healthcare, we just have to ask our orthopedist for a prescription, so we get a totally free custom made brace , no needs to be pre-approved, nothing to sign, we will never receive a bill…if it need an adjustment, it’s free , if it need to be fix it’s free too .
Got out my (neoprene ankle/foot) brace/wrap. The stiff underfoot section is under the toes and down the outside section. 🦶Basically the arch section and the heel is not supported.
My wonky walking pattern is that I twist my foot (right) to make push off to be completely from my big toe. I can move/wiggle the other four toes but they are not functional in the walking motion. Yesterday I began “toe ups” to try teaching my foot and muscles proper walking motion. Do you have any other suggestions for proper foot/toe exercises that might help? Yes I have calf and ankle spacisity, which I’m working on, but I also need to get those four toes functional. Weakness gets worse as you move further away from the big toe.
Hoping you can picture my issue and the weird foot twisting I do.
Many thanks!!!
My ankle rolls. That’s why I wear one. The spasticity is less now. Foot drop also is not happening as much. Ten month out from stroke.
im having trouble walking due to my ankle sometimes roll plus my toes acts up..what did you do to lessen ur spasticity..thanks
@@jersonsoriano3706 time helps. Stretches every night. I wore a night splint every night to keep my leg from hyperextending. I also do Pilates. I go to the gym and do leg workouts. I don’t know which one was the best. I think it’s just a combination of everything that I do.
@@jersonsoriano3706 I also started Botox shots. And I’m lucky that it’s helping
God bless you Dr
I'm finding a changing routine of solid lastic brace, dyna ic elasticated brace((boxia)and fes with footswitch is great for me
U mentioned putting on the brace so it would be dorsi flexed ( idk if I am saying that correctly)
wearing the brace because the ankle rolls ,Her therapist has always said walking was never a goal ( not her goal ) I am just the caregiver and since myself and my patient have been watching your channel ,my patient loves to watch you ! ,we have made great improvements in her rehab ! Now her therapist is pregnant and even less interested , they wont take her to get fitted for a brace because of covid buy ordered her a soft one n it helps ! Can u explain the dorsi pattern or do u have anither video I should watch that explains that ?
I have asked this question b4. Is articulating AFO suitable for spastic ankle
I would like to hear more about bracing I’m 2 1/2 years stroke survivor and I’m going back an forth with my afo I was walking before using it and with all this brain fog 😶🌫️…I’m a a lost it has helped with my walking but for some reason I think it recess me so now I’m going back an forth with wearing it now but when I really need to get somewhere I put it on
Very informative! Thanks. Should do a video on aligning all joints of affected leg after a stroke means, ankle, knee and hip. Thanks.
Great idea. Thanks!
@@rehabhqofficial you're welcome. Let me know if you need more info.
What happens if you have both? There are times I can't even pick up my foot at all and it drags. And because how I walk it half circles on the floor as it wont pick up no matter how hard I try. But I also have my foot just come down ...like my toes go downwards all the times as I walk as my ankle rolls.
Best brace for hyper extension of knee
Great vid thank you Tara!
Where are you located. My son suffered a TBI 3years ago and would
Love to get him in to see you.
Thanks Doc...I am a MS patient and on a wheelchair.....Taking my physiotherapy sessions daily....like standing on a walker with AFO on...but those AFO are helping me for not twisting my both ankles while standing...AFO are too heavy for my weak leg muscles....Can you share any exercises for strengthening ankle muscles. Waiting and Thanks
Hi, I don't have drop foot but a heel rolling outward when walking. I had a AFO custom made and it is helping a lot. How long do I have to wear this to correct heel rolling issue on my left foot? My Surgeon says the brain will re-learn to walk with better gait. I have abnormal gait right after surgery now almost 4 years later.
I had hemografic stroke in 20007. I have been wearing a custom a go that is now hinged! The last several months my knee hyperextends my spacicity is getting worse
Hi Tara...Great Video. I had G.B.S. in the early 60's. Braces were not thought about then. I'm 73 yrs. old I still have issues with foot drop. Is it to late to brace now ?
I have pretty severe nerve damage and foot drop. My entire leg is weak feeling. Can I strengthen this leg or will the nerve damage keep it from getting stronger? David
:) love your tone in "breaking a bone"
I have Fabry disease.Due lacunar infarcts I have foot drop and arch drop(Sciatic nerve popliteal paresis simptom).I have inserts in a shoes but I still thinking to try some afo because sometime I still dropping.What is Ur opinion.I am engineer and sometimes I have to travel.Would be a benefit or stay just with inserts?
Given a brace i wasn't show how to properly shown how to put on myself
I am 53, I have spastic CP and I still wear AFO's because I know people younger than me who don't wear AFO's and they can't wear shoes now.
In a previous video you mention contracture. I think my son has it in his hamstrings and soleus. He can only extend his leg about 60 and his foot points down when I have him in a harness with a ceiling lift. Can contractures be fixed?
hi I have severe spasticity in my left calf from stroke 20 yrs ago I recently purchased a night splint, should I be able to walk in the splint, example if I have splint on during the day and need to use the rest room. it does have a thick rubber pad on the bottom.normally I am able to get around with a cane.
Due to frequent tripping, Fatigue, SOB and neuropathy. my Doctor ordered a Rollater. Upon my PT evaluation my gait was described as having “Increased trunk flexion with decreased trailing of bilateral lower limbs”. My physiatrist ordered an Knee height AFO” for stablelization. He actually believes that I need a brace from the hip down but does not think I would have the stamina to use the brace. Have used braces most of my life due to CP. Is the development of this gait a combination of factors or is it a result of the diabetic neuropathy? My biggest goal is to maintain mobility but the neuropathy is making it very difficult.
TY for sharing
After I fractured my foot then drop foot kicked in, I've never had any therapy for foot. PT just won't help me in this area
I just want to regain some mobility
Hello there, just started watching your videos on 4-14-22 I had a stroke in 1999 and from that I have weakness on my right side, walk with a limp and have foot. Over the years I've worn different braces. For a few months now my foot has been locking up. So now doctor is saying that my foot lower part of leg is spastic. So could you give me some suggestions on brace that I need to be wearing, preferably one that's not so bulky and comes up to your knees. Also exercises that I can do to help rewire my brain and for the spasticity. Thank you so kindly.
I have severe foot drop from nerve damage. What was the name of the brace to wear at night to help spasticity?
Thanks
Thanks for this informative video! I recently was assessed by an orthotist and the AFOs she had did not work as the spasticity kept causing my heel to lift out of my shoe! My foot drop is not too bad but my knee is buckling. Do you think a custom AFO would be better than trying to treat the spasticity? Thanks for any thoughts on this!
MS 15 years
How I join your program I want know about my recovery i had post stroke 2year post I can walk easily but my ankle swing upwards
Should I get a brace that makes my ankle bend?
utmost informative thanks!
Hi my name is Ken I am 8 years post stroke and still hemipalic I discovered that I walk better without anything however I do use a cane it's got a Kool skull cane topper so if I somehow get healed I will still use it for a fashion statement
Does spasticity and foot drop cause the whole foot to feel very inflamed? I often have to rest the bottom of my foot with and ice pack. same with ankle. Is this ok to do?
I have spasticity in my lower body and wear knee braces regularly to help with walking and standing. I feel that I need to wear them most of the time as it’s alleviates knee pain. I also stretch and do as much strength work that I can. My question is, is it bad for the muscles to wear braces so much? Other than when I’m in bed, should I have periods of time during the day where I try not to wear them so my muscles don’t get to use to them?
Doesn't continually wearing an AFO cause the muscles that lift the foot to atrophy?
Great video. Thanks a ton
Hello Dr. Tobias, My left foot drops to the left. I can pull it up and down but the toes dropdown. What muscles are weak and need to be strengthened. And what exercises would be best for this? I have improved a lot since my back surgery as I had drop foot in both feet. I also have tightness in both feet that feel like a tightened rubber band.
My AFO I'm going to have made on May 11th 2021 for Dcrsiflexicn Assist and a Hinged Ankle Joint with Lateral Ankle Support and Toe Plate Extrrndedto to stop My toes from curling. I've been going Botox 11 months with a Neurologist. For my Ankle and toes that are curled in. I've been in 11 months Therapy at St Elizabeth Hospital in KY. I'm learning to drive. I'm 47 and need my independence I'm 90 % of healing from my Stroke my AFO now doesn't always allow me to have proper Ankle movement. Should I work on making my Ankle stronger and think it's going to come back like my right side of my body has. Should I brace with my new AFO I'm having made in May when I drive take off my brace. My Podiatrist is the Dr that wrote the prescription for the new AFO. Blessings Wendie
i m looking for spasticity brace
İ use my leg afo for one year to keep my ankle safe. And now i can lift up my ankle so muscles kept by afo
What is best if you have both drop foot and spasticity
If you have foot drop and spasticity what brace do you recommend? I have Parkinson’s Disease and dystonia that makes my foot move. Is that the same as spasticity?
Ihad stroke last November 2021. ( can walk but my right toe moves and its own. It sometimes points up, making it painful to walk Now i tie the toe and the roe next to it so it would not move much. What do you suggest I do?
how do i get a good ankle brace for spasticity
What can you do if you have a brace and still have you big toe pointing down when you walk. Also why does pain develop that starts at outside of ankle and shoots up to buttock muscle when AFO is removed. Help Thanks for all you do.
These are excellent questions! Generally speaking, if someone has a toe that points down, a full foot plate is recommended. If someone has a full foot plate and the foot still points down, generally speaking, a toe separator might be of some value (link: amzn.to/3t9Z0w2); Regarding part two of this comment, walking without an AFO can cause the pain you are describing if the foot is rolling to the outside and the knee is popping backward. I hope that answers your questions!
Hi, are you able to recommend an affordable night foot drop leg splint which I might be able to purchase in Singapore here? Appreciate it..
Amazon shopee Lazada I'm living in Singapore too
@@M0B05H1 mind sharing the type that you bought online? As there are too many different types of foot drop leg splint..
Any concerns about ankle muscle atrophy we've extended use of an afo
Hi Ryan! Thanks for the question. Yes, long term use of an AFO does cause some atrophy. That is why I made this video. It is important to know the risks AND the benefits of wearing an AFO. In my opinion, ankle spasticity that is left to persist (without an AFO) has more deleterious impact down the road versus the impact of muscle atrophy. I hope that helps!
I want to ask I have a problem of ankle rolling while walking due to my spasticity on involved side, kindly suggest me exercise for it. I keep falling most of the time and because of that I have developed a fear that I’m going to trip .
It has been 5 years since my stroke and I just got an AFO. My knee was hurting the more i walk the more it hurt . When I went to get me botox shots my Dr said I think you need an AFO. The AFO helps but after a month it started making a sore on my upper shin. Is it possible my spasticity is over powering my AFO? It is a custom made brace. Are there spasticity exercises for people who have a new AFO but stroke was over 5 years ago and major spasicity.
I listen to you all the time and you really help me.
Thanks for sharing! Generally speaking, anytime a brace is causing skin problems, it must be refitted and/or modified by an orthotist.
Thank you for your helpful tips! My AFO [i have spasticity not drop foot] is ill-fitting and my foot is now supinating and walking has become problematic as I have fallen several times. If you can offer any of your wise words, it would be GREATLY APPECIATED
Hi Taylor. Thanks for watching and for sharing your story. This video pretty much covers "general guidelines". If you live in the US, you should be able to get back into PT who can work with an orthotist (person who made the brace) to have your brace modified. I hope that helps!
If I got drop foot from sciatica, will i be able to fully recover from this
Thank you
Will it help me? Im on my 14th month stroke rehab
I had a stroke two years ago, did not want an AFO, but looks like I have a drop foot with supenation. It doesn't look like I have Spasticity. Is this possible? My toes curl sometimes if I stand only on my affected foot.
😊 Thank you !