When placing a heel wedge on a shoe with a conventional AFO to address a flexible varus hindfoot, where should the wedge be positioned?

Positioning a heel wedge correctly is crucial for effectively addressing a flexible varus hindfoot using a conventional ankle-foot orthosis (AFO). The right placement is between the stirrup and the sole of the shoe. This area provides the necessary support and can effectively realign the foot by providing a lateral lift.

When the wedge is placed between the stirrup and the sole, it elevates the foot laterally, creating an adjusted angle for the hindfoot that can compensate for the varus alignment. This positioning allows for direct contact with the anatomical structures of the foot and enhances control over the hindfoot positioning, which is particularly beneficial in addressing flexibility in the deviation.

In contrast, placing the wedge between the stirrup and heel of the shoe might not achieve the same level of control or support for the intended correction. Similarly, situating the wedge between the shank and the sole may not effectively influence the foot's alignment and may instead compromise the overall function of the orthosis. Placing it below the heel of the shoe usually provides less direct support to the lateral aspect of the foot, making it less effective for managing a varus deformity.

Thus, the best practice emphasizes the importance of placing the wedge between the stirrup and the