M10P5 - AFO alternative

I have needed an AFO for 20 years. I probably only actually wore an AFO for 2 of those years in total. Despite being "custom made" and molded from my foot, the many AFOs I've had never fit correctly or were comfortable no matter what style, material, or type was prescribed. I always ended up with sores, which for a diabetic, is akin to hacking off my toes right then and there.

Anyway, I refused to wear the AFOs. I learned how to walk without it while compensating for my severe drop foot. Sure I walked weird and it was obvious to anyone who looked, but I got around without falling on my face so I considered it a win.

The problem arose when I lost a lot of weight and actually started walking and standing on my feet for long periods. Now my pronated walk and dragging foot was causing a non-healing ulcer on my drop foot from all the friction.

I currently have an ulcer on my foot that I've had for nearly a year. I have been seeing a wound specialist for the entirety of the wound. The funny thing is, we get the wound to heal but it breaks open again with any bit of walking. Finally, a physical therapist I was seeing suggested I try something called a TOE UP.

I do not have the words to express what a game changer this thing is. Instead of this hard, plastic-y or metal thing surrounding your foot; a toe up is not touching your foot at all. Instead, there is a neoprene cuff that sits above your ankle and a strap that you attach to your shoe laces.

And the best part is the price and availability. A traditional custom-made AFO is expensive. I have no idea how expensive since it's always been paid for by insurance but that in itself is a huge hassle. And it takes time to have the mold made, then the AFO fabricated, and the return trips for the fittings to make sure it all came out correctly and to make adjustments. The toe up... I got mine for $20 on Amazon, no prescription necessary.

I cannot believe I spent 20 years dealing with traditional AFOs when there was this simplistic alternative available. And it's not like I'm the only person saying this. The Amazon reviews are full of people saying the exact things I am. EVERYONE in need of an AFO needs to be made aware of this incredible option so they can decide what is best for them.

Adjustable Drop Foot Brace Foot Up AFO Brace Unisex Fits for Right/Left Foot Orthosis Ankle Brace Support, Improve Walking Gait, Effective Relieve Pain for Achilles Tendon (Black) https://a.co/d/gX6st5d