Xtern AFO Brace (Foot Drop)

The Xtern AFO is an ideal solution for those living with foot drop who want to wear a wide range of shoes – from hiking boots to sandals to dress shoes. 

Living with foot drop can already be so limiting – so we’re excited to share that with the Xtern ankle-foot orthotic (AFO), you no longer have to be limited in your footwear options. This fantastic brace can be changed from shoe to shoe in seconds, given that it sits entirely outside of the shoe, which also maximises your comfort and prevents any rubbing or skin injuries from having a brace in contact with your skin. It has been tested across a range of shoe types and in many conditions – including during marathons, triathlons, endurance activities and adventures in the wild Canadian backcountry. Yep – when we say it’s a game-changer for those with a dropped foot, we really do mean it!

The Xtern AFO brace can be used with:

• Running shoes
• Lace and velcro-fastening shoes and boots
• Walking shoes
• Hiking boots
• Safety boots
• Work shoes
• Dress shoes
• Sandals

With the Xtern, we love that its innovative design offers our patients exceptional levels of support and stability while allowing for freedom of movement (and versatility in footwear choices). Unlike traditional braces, which can be cumbersome and restrictive, the Xtern features a lightweight ‘exoskeleton’ design that fits securely onto the outside of the shoe. It features:

• Enhanced mobility: unlike many other AFOs, the Xtern does not restrict ankle movement, allowing for easy plantarflexion and maintaining maximal ankle range of motion and calf muscle strength.

• Custom build: the Xtern brace is custom-built to fit each individual’s unique needs, ensuring a perfect fit and personalised support.

• Durability: made from highly durable thermoplastic, the Xtern offers long-lasting durability and reliability, backed by a limited warranty of 2 years.

• Comfort and support: designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, the Xtern provides maximum comfort while allowing for freedom of movement and versatility in footwear choices.

• Versatility: the Xtern brace seamlessly integrates with a wide range of footwear options, including trainers, lace-up shoes, walking shoes, safety boots, dress shoes, and sandals.

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• Exoskeleton design: the Xtern AFO fits onto the outside of the shoe, eliminating skin contact with the foot or ankle and minimising discomfort and rubbing injuries.

Who Can Benefit From The Xtern AFO?

The Xtern AFO is ideal for individuals living with foot drop or dorsiflexion weakness, as well as neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and motor neuropathy. We are seeing great results with it in conditions including Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT), Guillain-Barre syndrome and motor neurone disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Xtern AFO differ from traditional braces?

Unlike traditional braces, which can be bulky and restrictive, the Xtern AFO features a lightweight exoskeleton design that fits onto the outside of the shoe. This eliminates skin contact with the foot or ankle, minimising discomfort and rubbing injuries while allowing for freedom of movement. One of the biggest differentiating factors is also the range of shoes it is suitable to use with.

What types of footwear can I wear with the Xtern AFO?

The Xtern AFO is compatible with a wide range of footwear options, including trainers, lace-up shoes, walking shoes, safety boots, dress shoes, and sandals. Its versatile design ensures that you can enjoy the same level of support and stability regardless of the occasion or activity.

Can the Xtern AFO be customised to fit my unique needs?

Yes, the Xtern AFO is custom-built to fit each individual’s unique needs. Our podiatrists work closely with our patients to ensure a perfect fit and personalised support, enhancing comfort and effectiveness.

How durable is the Xtern AFO?

The Xtern AFO is made from highly durable thermoplastic and comes with a limited warranty of 2 years. Its robust construction ensures long-lasting durability and reliability, providing peace of mind for our patients.

Who can benefit from the Xtern AFO?

The Xtern AFO is ideal for individuals living with foot drop and neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and motor neuropathy. Whether you’re navigating uneven terrain or participating in sports activities, the Xtern provides the support and stability you need to move with confidence and independence.

Is there anyone that the Xtern brace is not suitable for?

Yes, our clinical limitations include those with gross fixed deformities of the foot and ankle, those with severe spasticity, quadriceps weakness, severe proximal weakness, a crouch gait, and those who wear inappropriate footwear or those outside of what we’ve indicated above.