What Makes a PDE AFO Unique?
PDE stands for Posterior Dynamic Element. This component is essentially a section of an AFO that can be interchanged and customised depending on the patient’s activity levels, weight and what they want to achieve.
A PDE is a strut that allows for controlled ankle movement and provides a great amount of energy return on walking, like a spring.
PDE AFOs come in different strut flexibilities: values one to six, with one being the most flexible and six being the most rigid. Depending on how much ankle movement we want for the patient, the flexibility can be adjusted to accommodate.
Is a PDE a Premade or Custom Product?
The PDE is the strut, which is prefabricated.
The PDE slots into the calf shell and the foot and ankle section, which would be completely custom made and varies from patient to patient.
Who is appropriate for an AFO PDE Prescription?
In most cases, AFO PDE are suitable for high–activity patients and commonly paediatrics.
We have prescribed these to children living with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy to promote lower limb function.
The PDE allows for a portion of energy storage that assists with propelling the person forward and may even allow them to run.
How an AFO PDE Works
Within the AFO PDE, there’s a housing that is laminated into both the custom-made ankle and foot shell and into the calf shell. That housing is attached using screws, it can be removed and replaced with an alternative strut.
The strut comes in three different lengths: 20 centimeters, 25 centimeters, and 30 centimeters. The width is typically around two centimeters, and different options are available that provide varying flexibility.
The struts are typically made of carbon fiber, which can bend and return to its original shape. This also grants energy storage and return properties and provides adequate flexibility and strength to the ankle.
Contraindications
Patients are typically evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
For patients with a small amount of basic foot drop, a PDE is probably not necessary. It’s also not generally used if we want a joint to be completely locked. For example, for arthritic ankles when it’s best to have the joint fused, it wouldn’t be appropriate to wear a PDE.
PDEs are best used for high-activity patients who need frequent support for push-off movements and who require flexibility.
Patient Outcomes of an AFO PDE
Our goal is to grant the patient as much movement as possible. The PDE makes that possible. When fitting the device, we only influence the movement that we want to control, and allow free range of motion elsewhere.
PDEs are still relatively new, so many patients might not have seen or had an opportunity to use one previously.
Oftentimes, the PDE is an improvement to an older model AFO.
If indicated, we will create a custom PDE solution for the patient.
Support for Foot Drop and Neurological Conditions
The Posterior Dynamic Element (PDE) is a type of dynamic AFO used to improve walking function, stability, and push-off power. This design helps people regain control while walking, enabling smoother, more energy-efficient movement.
Who Benefits From a PDE Brace
The PDE is often used by people with:
- Foot drop with associated ankle instability
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Cerebral palsy
- Stroke
- Brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Peripheral nerve injury
- Muscular dystrophy
What Makes This AFO Different
- Carbon fibre struts store and releases energy
- Interchangeable strut stiffness options
- Custom fit to the patient’s anatomy and walking pattern
- Lighter than traditional rigid braces
- Helps restore push-off and improve pace
Getting Fitted for a Dynamic AFO
Initial Assessment
A qualified Orthotist performs a full assessment including gait analysis, strength testing, and footwear review.
Customisation and Planning
Strut stiffness, length, and brace configuration are selected based on the patient’s needs. Casts are taken for custom fabrication.
Fitting Appointment
The brace is fitted and tested during walking to ensure comfort and function.
Fitting Appointment
The brace is applied and adjusted to ensure secure fit and comfort in everyday shoes.
Follow-Up Care
Adjustments can be made in-clinic. Long-term monitoring ensures the brace keeps pace with the user’s activity level or growth.
What’s Included
- Initial assessment
- Custom brace configuration
- In-person fitting
- Follow-up consultation within 2–4 weeks
- Support documentation for funding claims
Exclusions:
- Specialised footwear
- Extra devices or accessories
- Repairs outside the warranty period
Pricing and Funding Guidance
Dynamic AFO devices vary in cost based on the model, material selection, strut type, and level of customisation. Orthotics Plus does not publish fixed pricing online. Patients can request a personalised quote during the assessment process.
Common funding pathways include:
- NDIS (Assistive Technology categories)
- Private health insurance (extras cover)
- TAC or WorkSafe for eligible injury cases
- DVA for veterans
Book an Assessment at Orthotics Plus
Orthotics Plus is an NDIS registered provider, we are experienced with all types of AFOs and other Assistive Technology.
- We have multiple clinic locations
- Paediatric specialist staff
- We are kind and caring
- NDIS home visits available
Please use our clinic locations page to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you!
FAQs
Foot drop with associated ankle instability, cerebral palsy, MS, and motor weakness from neurological conditions. This could be paediatrics or adults.
We assess the patient’s gait, strength, and needs. The brace is fitted and adjusted to support natural walking while reducing strain.
With proper use, the device lasts 5–10 years. Struts can be replaced as needed.
Yes, most regular lace-up or Velcro shoes work well. We’ll advise during your fitting.
Contact your clinic for an adjustment. Comfort is essential for long-term use.
Keep the brace clean, dry, and free from debris. Bring it in if you notice wear or reduced support.