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What Is an AFO? And Can It Help With Walking Challenges?

Posted by:

Johannes Sauer

Updated at: July 04, 2025

Table of Contents

  1. What Is an AFO? And Can It Help With Walking Challenges?

  2. We Understand: Mobility Solutions Can Be Overwhelming

  3. What Is an AFO?

  4. AFOs and Footwear: Why the Shoe Matters

  5. Cadense Adaptive Shoes: Designed to Support or Pair With AFOs

  6. Moving Forward With Confidence

  7. Find Footwear That Works With You

What Is an AFO? And Can It Help With Walking Challenges?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with foot drop, multiple sclerosis, post-stroke mobility, neuropathy, or similar conditions—you might be hearing the term AFO a lot. But what is an AFO, really? And is it something you actually need?

Let’s walk through what an AFO is, how it works, who it’s for—and how it compares to (or works with) adaptive shoes like Cadense.

We Understand: Mobility Solutions Can Be Overwhelming

Living with a walking difficulty doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you’re just starting your recovery journey or have been managing symptoms for years, figuring out the best tools to stay mobile can feel confusing and frustrating.

If you’ve ever asked “what is an AFO” after hearing it at a doctor’s office or in a support group—you’re not alone. And the good news? Understanding your options is the first step toward finding the right support.

What Is an AFO?

AFO stands for Ankle-Foot Orthosis. It’s a brace designed to support the ankle and foot—often used when a person has trouble lifting their foot fully while walking (a symptom known as foot drop). AFOs help improve gait by:

  • Holding the ankle and foot in a stable position
  • Preventing the toes from dragging
  • Supporting weak or paralyzed muscles
  • Improving balance and reducing fall risk

What is an AFO used for? It’s commonly prescribed for people with:

  • Foot drop
  • Stroke-related leg weakness
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Peripheral neuropathy

AFOs can be rigid or flexible, depending on your needs, and they’re usually custom-fitted by a physical therapist or orthotist.

AFOs and Footwear: Why the Shoe Matters

So now that you know what an AFO is, here’s where things get tricky: not every shoe works with an AFO.

AFO braces tend to be bulky. Many standard shoes don’t have the space, flexibility, or adjustability to comfortably fit over one—especially if you’re already dealing with nerve sensitivity, swelling, or balance issues.

This is where adaptive shoes come in.

What is an AFO?

Jul 4, 2025

Cadense Adaptive Shoes: Designed to Support or Pair With AFOs

At Cadense, we create shoes specifically for people with walking challenges—whether or not they wear an AFO. While not all AFOs are compatible with Cadense shoes, many are, thanks to our:

  • Wide openings and adjustable closures, making it easier to slide a brace-wearing foot in
  • Spacious toe boxes to reduce nerve pressure and accommodate swelling or devices
  • Lightweight construction that reduces fatigue, even with added hardware like braces
  • Slip-resistant soles that support balance, whether you’re in recovery or managing a condition long-term

If you use an AFO, we always recommend double-checking brace size and fit to ensure compatibility before purchasing. But if you’re looking for a brace-friendly shoe that also looks and feels great—Cadense may be just what you need.

Moving Forward With Confidence

Still wondering what an AFO is and how it fits into your mobility plan? Here’s the bottom line:

  • An AFO is a medical device that supports weakened or unstable feet and ankles.
  • It’s often used alongside adaptive shoes to improve balance and mobility.
  • Cadense shoes may be compatible with many AFOs—and can also work beautifully on their own for people managing foot drop, MS, neuropathy, stroke recovery, and more.

Find Footwear That Works With You

If you’re navigating foot drop, MS, neuropathy, or post-stroke walking challenges, you deserve footwear that’s built for your life—not just your condition.

Whether you’re wearing an AFO or looking for support that stands on its own, explore Cadense Adaptive Shoes today. Designed for comfort, stability, and movement—so every step feels a little easier.

Because walking shouldn’t feel like a fight. Let Cadense support your next step forward.

Discover AFO Compatible Shoes

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Posted by: Johannes Sauer

Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. Johannes is the CEO and Co-Founder of Cadense and passionate about helping people with walking difficulties. He was immediately drawn to the mission of the company because his cousin lost his lower leg in a tragic motorcycle accident a few years ago and is experiencing walking difficulties ever since. Johannes brings over a decade of experience in working for consumer product companies to Cadense. He holds an MBA from the University of Graz in Austria. Johannes lives with his family in Santa Barbara, CA.

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Medical Disclaimer: This website is not intended for the purpose of providing medical advice. This website’s information, content, and material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Cadense Inc. may not be held liable for any damages whether incidental, ordinary or consequential. Cadense does not make any guarantee of any particular end result. Cadense makes no claims or guarantees of payment/reimbursement by any insurance companies. Cadense adaptive shoes are intended to provide greater mobility to those with walking difficulties.

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