Comments from Readers

Comments for Knee weakness after a stroke
AFO vs knee brace


The foot brace (AFO) is aligning your ground reaction force and your foot in relation to your shin so is controlling your knee. Without the AFO your foot will be in a plantarflexed position causing the knee to hyperextend due to the GRF being aligned more anteriorly. The AFO decreases the angle between your shin and foot so that your tibia can incline and the knee is not as far behind the GRF, preventing it from hyperextending. Usually after a stroke people have weak dorsiflexors so cannot hold their foot up against gravity (drop foot) so without the AFO the foot will drop making it difficult to not trip over the foot. I don't think a knee brace would be advised as this will align your knee so that it is not as stable over your foot.

Return to Knee weakness after a stroke.

Get Our Stroke Rehab Guide

Our comprehensive stroke rehab guide in pdf format is designed for both patients and caregivers who want clear, practical ways to support recovery, improve daily function, and regain independence at home. It includes

  • Rehab exercises with pictures for safe home practice
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy guidance
  • Tips for daily activities and adaptive equipment
  • Answers to common questions from patient and caregivers
  • Information on stroke causes, treatment, and prevention



Author headshot

About the Author

Karen Murray, MOT, CHT, CSRS, is a licensed occupational therapist,  Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist, Certified Hand Therapist, and Certified Personal Trainer with over 29 years of experience working with stroke survivors in hospital, outpatient, and home settings. She created Stroke-Rehab.com to help patients and caregivers better understand recovery and regain independence at home.



Medical Disclaimer: All information on this website is for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider before undertaking a new healthcare or exercise regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website. See the disclaimer page for full information.