Are Your Kids’ AFO Braces Causing Blisters? – Try Padding and Cushion
AFO braces are designed to help children walk more comfortably and confidently by stabilizing the joints and correcting the gait. However, despite their benefits, AFO braces can sometimes lead to skin issues such as blisters, especially if not worn with the right shoes and socks. The first step is always to take the brace back to your medical professional for an adjustment. However, since that process can take a week or two, there’s a simple solution you can try right now to increase your child’s comfort and prevent blisters from getting worse.
What to Do If Your Child Gets Blisters from Wearing AFOs
If your child develops a blister from their AFOs, start by gently cleaning the area with mild soap and water to prevent infection. Then, cover it with a soft bandage or blister pad to protect it from further rubbing and irritation.
First Step: Find the Spot That’s Causing the Blisters
The most common spots where kids get blisters from AFOs are the backs of their heels and along the sides of their feet. If you’ve identified the spot on the AFO that’s causing your child’s blisters, the next step is to place moleskin to create a soft barrier that cushions the skin, helps reduce friction, and protects your child’s feet from further irritation.
Second Step: Apply Moleskin
You can easily pick up moleskin at your local pharmacy or, for added convenience, order it directly from Amazon and have it delivered to your door.
Moleskin is a soft, adhesive fabric that can be cut to size and applied directly to the brace or the skin. To apply moleskin:
- Clean and dry the area where the moleskin will be applied
- Cut the moleskin to the desired size
- Remove the backing and apply the moleskin to the brace or the skin, ensuring it adheres smoothly without any wrinkles.
For a visual guide, watch my video to see exactly how to apply moleskin effectively.
Watch My Video On How to Stop AFO Braces from Causing Blisters
If your child’s AFO braces are rubbing or causing blisters, this video is for you. I share how to place moleskin on the AFOs to help protect your child’s skin, improve comfort, and prevent blisters from getting worse.
Shoes and Socks Play a Big Role in Preventing Blisters
Parents need to know that they can provide their children with the best-fitting AFO, but if the AFOs don’t fit correctly inside the shoes, it basically negates all of the benefits that the AFOs have to offer.
How to Choose the Perfect Shoes for Your Child’s AFOs
Shoes and socks play a significant role in preventing blisters. Ill-fitting shoes, whether too tight or too loose, can increase friction, leading to blisters. Shoes that are too tight can squeeze the foot, creating pressure points, while shoes that are too loose can cause the foot to slide and rub against the brace.
Check out my curated list of top-rated shoes that have consistently worked well for families of children who wear AFOs—tested, trusted, and parent-approved. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you
1. 990v6 by New Balance with Laces. This is one of the deepest and most supportive New Balance shoe for AFOs. Available in wide and extra wide widths means that you won’t have to get the shoes overly large to accommodate the AFOs. Parents report positive feedback on how these shoes accommodate AFOs and are durable.
Key Features
- Order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
- Also available in pink and navy blue
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
990 Series with Velcro
- Order the 990v6 with velcro on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
- Also available in grey and black
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
2. Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run. These shoes for AFOs provide extra long straps and extra depth to allow the AFOs to sit deeply inside the shoes. These shoes have a lightweight design.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
3. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite. These Stride Rite shoes for AFOs are loved by parents because their children can wear them for casual wear or dressier occasions.
Key Features
- Order the shoe SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
4. Ikiki Shoes. These shoes are designed with a focus on functionality and fun. They feature a wide toe box that supports natural foot movement, and many of their designs include playful characters and bright colors that toddlers love.
Key Features
- Order the shoe by Ikiki on Amazon
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
- Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes
- Synthetic Vegan Leather
- Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
5. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite. These sneakers are part of the Stride Rite adaptable line and come with extra long velcro straps and are available in extra wide widths.
Key Features
- Order the shoe M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
6. Billy Shoes. Billy Shoes have become a favorite among families with children who wear AFOs. Their unique zipper design allows for easy on-and-off, making them a convenient choice for both parents and children.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Classic DR High II by Billy on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in extra wide widths
- Leather upper
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
7. Shoe Style Gabi by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe). These orthopedic shoes for AFOs are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing flat feet.
Key Features
- You can order the shoe Gabi by Memo on Amazon
- Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
Ensure Your Child Wears the Right Socks
Some tall socks are specially designed for children who wear AFOs, offering the extra protection and comfort their feet need. The socks I recommend act as a barrier between your child’s skin and the brace, reducing friction and irritation. It’s important that the socks are breathable to help manage moisture, since sweaty feet are more vulnerable to blisters. Just as crucial is getting the right size—socks that bunch or wrinkle can create pressure points that lead to skin issues.
Other factors that might be causing your child’s blisters and skin irritations:
- Change in body shape (growth, tonal fluctuations, changes in ankle/foot alignment)
- Poorly dried skin
Reach Out with Any Questions
I understand that every child’s needs are unique, and finding the right solutions can be challenging. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s AFO braces or shoe fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to provide guidance and support to ensure your child’s comfort and well-being.
