← Return to Could AFOs help with balance?? They are helping me!

Discussion

Could AFOs help with balance?? They are helping me!

Neuropathy | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (16)
Comment receiving replies
@playadelcarmen

Question, my husband has inherited PN, also hammer toes, and a very high arch. Numbness started in toes and has progressed up to his knees, no pain. He is 78, walks with an unsteady gait, does this effect anyone’s driving? Sorry for long question. Thank

Jump to this post

Replies to "Question, my husband has inherited PN, also hammer toes, and a very high arch. Numbness started..."
domiha | @domiha | Dec 9 9:29am

I am still able to drive, and even with the AFO braces in my shoes. So far, I can still feel my feet well enough .... and I can feel the pressure on the pedals of the car. Others may have different experiences to share. In my case, the numbness and tingling in my feet is slight.... just enough to affect my balance to an extent. Best wishes! Mike

VIEW AND REPLY
NJ Ed | @njed | 6 days ago

Please keep in mind, in my opinion, with PN, there is no one solid "fit all" answer to every situation and what works for one may not work for another. With that in mind, I can offer the following. I was evaluated and prescribed the ankle foot orthotics (AFO's) in 2020 and have been driving with them since 2020 and drive today. I drive about 14,000 miles per year and someday will likely need hand controls. AFO's were prescribed for drop foot and my balance has improved 80%. Without them on, I must walk with a cane. Perhaps he can be evaluated by a medical professional to see if AFO's would be required. Wish you the best.

VIEW AND REPLY