socks for ankle orthotics (AFOs)

[hazeyjane]

Ds has just had AFOs made for him, as well as struggling to find shoes to fit them, I wonder if anyone could recommend socks that will be long enough, soft enough and reduce rubbing?

Thankyou!

[youarekiddingme]

Seamless was my first thought. Also the bamboo cotton ones as they are good when feet get hot.

[ArtichokeHeartsAppleCarts]

I get mine for DS from carrots equestrian. They are quite thick, cotton rich and DS loves the funky designs. I fold them over the AFOs at the top and size up a bit

When DS was first given AFOs we built up the time he wore them for-I think he wore them for 2hrs the first day or two, then a gradual build up to full days. We didn't have any issues with rubbing/sore feet etc surprisingly, as DS has super sensitive skin.

Cheap supermarket trainers are good for AFOs, if you take the insoles out of them that helps. Crocs do half wellie boots with a velcro flap thingy DS can get his AFOs in. If you need school shoes, we've just found some from start rite in wide fit and sized up. It's always a wiggle to get them on and off but gets easier as the shoes soften.

[signandsingcarols]

hi dh wears AFOs, he uses tubi-grip with his usual socks over his feet. (I will have a look at the smartknit ones tho, as I didn't know they did them... thanks

[hazeyjane]

Thankyou every one. I have ordered some of the smart knit afo socks, they look perfect, ds has really sensitive feet and has trouble regulating his temperature. We are having real problems persuading him to wear them and I don't know if it is because they are uncomfortable or because they are new.

Thanks, Artichoke for the tips about shoes, think we will go to hunt some out today.

[hazeyjane]

Just to update.

I bought 3 pairs of the smartknit socks, and ds now won't take them off, insisting on sleeping in them!

To be fair, they are the loveliest bloody socks ever, and I have bought some for myself as a treat for my birthday!

I really think they make a huge difference to the comfort of the AFOs.

We also bought him a pair of spiderman daps (sort of a velcroed converse style) to wear over the AFOs, so he isn't just stuck with his school shoes.

One happy boy!

[Kaffiene]

Another 7 year veteran of AFO sock hunting here. We used to use the smart knit socks but I actually find them too thick too wear with well fitting AFOs. The splints shouldn't rub. We use M&S girls knee high cotton socks and fold the end over the top of the splint. Make sure you check your DCs feet especially under the toes as they can be prone to athletes foot etc in the summer. We always have a supply of antibacterial foot creams. Still use smartknits in looser night splints though.
Brantano Osaga trainers are usually cheap and cheerful for over splints. We bulk buy when they have an offer on! School shoes wise Hush Puppies or Geox work for use or Osaga have a boys black trainer. If you are feeling flush tomcat twisters are amazing over AFO shoes. Amazing shoes with an amazing price tag unfortunately.