Sports and physical activity play a wonderful role in a child’s physical, mental and social development.

For children who wear Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs), participating in sports can be a rewarding experience with the right support and adaptations.

The right AFO can make a huge difference, helping kids stay active and enjoy sports without feeling left out. Parents and clinicians see firsthand how sports can benefit motor skills, build friendships, and give kids more confidence in themselves.

It’s great for children to participate in any sport that engages them and keeps them active. Our patients are usually lovers of AFL, basketball, soccer and netball predominantly.

While some sports may be more suited to certain conditions than others, finding a way to include all children in an active lifestyle is a key goal.

At Orthotics Plus, we are proud to guide families in selecting the right AFO for their child.

Types of AFOs Suitable for Sports

When choosing an AFO for a child who wants to participate in sports, it is important to consider their specific needs and the demands of the sport. The following types of AFOs are commonly used for sporting activities:

1. Jointed AFOs

  • Designed to allow a range of motion at the ankle.
  • Ideal for children who need mobility but still require support.
  • Helps prevent excessive restriction, which can hinder sports participation.

2. Ground Reaction AFOs (GRAFOs)

  • Features an anterior shell that encourages knee extension.
  • Beneficial for children who struggle with knee flexion while moving.
  • Provides stability and control, making movement easier.

3. Posterior Dynamic Element (PDE) AFOs

  • One of the most popular choices for active children.
  • Features a strut at the back of the leg, allowing controlled flexibility.
  • Struts come in different stiffness levels (ranging from 1 to 6), allowing for adjustments based on activity level.
  • Parents may be able to switch struts as needed with proper guidance.

4. Carbon Fibre AFOs

  • Lightweight and slimline design, making them ideal for fitting into sports shoes.
  • Offers propulsion assistance, acting as a spring to aid movement.
  • May be combined with jointed mechanisms or PDE struts for added support.

5. Leaf Spring AFOs

  • Made from plastic, providing basic support with a flexible design.
  • Slim profile makes them easier to fit into standard sports shoes.
  • Suitable for children who need minimal control but still require some assistance.

Customisation for Sports-Specific Needs

Some children may require a separate AFO for sports activities, while others might have an adjustable system that works for both daily life and athletics. Considerations for sports-specific AFOs include:

  • Strut stiffness adjustments – A more rigid strut for daily use, and a more flexible one for sports.
  • Foot and calf support modifications – Allowing more comfort and movement where needed.
  • High-impact material selection – Ensuring durability for active use.

As a registered NDIS provider, we will guide you through the approval process to obtain the Assistive Technology that is reasonable and necessary.

Choosing the Right Footwear for AFOs in Sports

Selecting appropriate footwear is crucial for maximising the benefits of an AFO. The best choices include:

  • Running shoes – Provide depth and width to accommodate the AFO while offering cushioning and support.
  • Football boots with wider designs – Certain brands, such as Asics, offer roomier football boots suitable for AFO users.
  • Adjustable closure systems – Velcro straps or laces that allow for a secure fit over the AFO.

During your consultations, we can cover this topic as much as needed.

How Often Should an AFO Be Replaced?

Children grow quickly, which means their AFOs will need regular adjustments or replacements. While this varies from child to child, a new AFO is typically needed once a year. However, some modular systems, such as PDE AFOs, allow for component changes instead of full replacements.

To ensure comfort while wearing an AFO during sports, the following strategies can help:

  • Gradually increase wear time before engaging in full sports sessions.
  • Use additional straps to prevent excessive movement within the AFO.
  • Wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction and irritation.

Success Stories: AFOs Enabling Kids in Sports

One of our coolest clients is a 12-year-old boy who struggled with participating in soccer due to restrictive plastic jointed AFOs.

By transitioning to PDE AFOs with adjustable stiffness, he gained the ability to run and train more effectively. Through testing various stiffness levels, he found the right balance between control and flexibility, allowing him to enjoy soccer without discomfort.

Getting Started with AFOs for Children’s Sports

Finding the best AFO for a child’s sporting needs requires careful consideration of their condition, the demands of the sport, and the level of support required.

Whether using a PDE AFO, a carbon fibre design, or another custom solution, the goal is to enable children to participate in sports comfortably and confidently.

With the right AFO and supportive footwear, children can experience the joys of physical activity, fostering their overall development and well-being.