Volume 10,Issue 4
Biomechanical Mechanisms and Clinical Efficacy of Ankle-Foot Orthoses in the Treatment of Flat Feet
Flatfoot, featuring medial longitudinal arch collapse, causes biomechanical alterations and functional impairment. Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) serve as a key conservative treatment, correcting deformities through multiple biomechanical pathways. This review summarizes recent advances in AFO mechanisms, efficacy, and design optimization. Evidence supports tailored AFO selection based on individual needs, while future research should prioritize 3D-printed customization and long-term studies to confirm their role in delaying disease progression.
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