What is the primary purpose of an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)?

• A. Reduces knee flexion
• B. Increases hip abduction
• C. Provides ankle stability and foot clearance to improve gait
• D. Converts mobility to wheelchair use

Answer: (C)

An ankle-foot orthosis is designed to stabilize the ankle and give the foot enough clearance to walk safely. By controlling ankle motion, especially preventing excessive plantarflexion and aiding dorsiflexion in the swing phase, an AFO keeps the foot at a functional angle. This reduces toe drag, supports a smoother toe-off, and provides a stable base for the leg, which improves overall gait efficiency and safety. The primary aim is achieving ankle stability and adequate foot clearance to enable a more normal walking pattern.

Other options don’t fit because the device is not intended to directly reduce knee flexion, increase hip abduction, or convert mobility to wheelchair use; those are unrelated goals to the main purpose of an AFO.