Which characteristic is NOT a purpose of AFOs in stroke rehabilitation?

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are designed to provide support and improve functional mobility for individuals with conditions such as stroke that impair their ability to walk. Each of the other characteristics mentioned—improving gait speed, enhancing quality of life, and improving dynamic balance—aligns with the goals of using AFOs in rehabilitation.

By providing structural support to the ankle and foot, AFOs facilitate a more stable walking pattern, which can lead to improved gait speed. They also assist in maintaining proper foot positioning during ambulation, thereby enhancing the individual's capacity to engage in daily activities, which positively affects overall quality of life.

Improving dynamic balance is particularly crucial in stroke rehabilitation, as many patients experience instability when transitioning between different surfaces or altering their posture. AFOs can help maintain balance by providing a solid foundation and facilitating safer movements.

However, while AFOs may inadvertently alleviate some discomfort by stabilizing the ankle and foot, their primary purposes do not include specifically targeting joint pain reduction. Joint pain management is usually addressed through other interventions, such as physical therapy or medication. Thus, the characteristic of reducing joint pain does not reflect a fundamental purpose of AFOs in the context of stroke rehabilitation.