An SMO (Supramalleolar Orthosis) supports the foot just above the ankle bone or malleolus. SMOs are prescribed for patients who have soft, flexible, flat feet (pes planovalgus). They are mostly worn by children.
Why would a child need SMO braces?
No matter how old your child is, SMO braces can help: Improve balance. Build strength. Increase confidence.
How long do you wear a SMO braces?
On average, a pair of Surestep SMOs will last anywhere from 6 – 12 months. What Does A Properly Fitting Surestep SMO Look Like? Your orthotist may request a design variation, but the footplates of standard Surestep SMOs will stop just shy of the pinky toe.
What is the difference between AFO and SMO?
SMO (Supra Malleolar Orthotics) the smaller shoe that helps stabilize the ankle and prevents the arch of the foot from collapsing. AFO (Ankle Foot Orthotics) this brace helps hold the foot and ankle in the correct position.
What joints are supported with an SMO?
SMO is the acronym for Supra-Malleolar Orthosis, meaning it supports the foot just above the anklebones or malleoli. They are used primarily to control subtalar joint alignment.
How do I install SMO?
How to Put on Your SMO
Place socks on feet.SMOs may have a left or right foot sticker on the bottom of the device. Open brace behind and underneath the foot and then slide foot into brace. Pull up on the toes to make sure the heel and the rest of the foot is fully seated in the brace.
Does my child need ankle braces?
Indications that your child may need AFO braces:
Foot/ankle instability. Knee instability. Hypertonia or hypotonia. Contractures.
Can you drive with an AFO brace?
With a rigid brace, you’ll find it easy to stand, but your movements will still be limited to walking. However, if you go with an articulated splint, you will recover nearly normal use of your legs. Our hinged AFO brace for foot drop will let you walk, run, drive any vehicle, and even practice any sport.
Can you wear SMO without shoes?
Is It Ok To Wear The SMOs Without Shoes Around The House? Although wearing shoes around the house is ideal, especially for more active kids, sliding socks with grips or tread overtop of the SMOs can be an easy, comfortable alternative.
Do you sleep with an AFO on?
You do not need to sleep in the brace unless otherwise instructed to do so. Skin Care: It is necessary to check your skin frequently while wearing your AFO/SMO. A new AFO/SMO may cause redness, which should disappear 15-20 minutes after removing the device.
Can you wear sandals with SMOs?
SMO’s should always be worn with socks and shoes. The best types of shoes to accommodate SMO’s are basic gym shoes with laces or Velcro. Sandals and dress shoes are not recommended since these shoes do not have much room inside to accommodate the orthosis.
How long should you wear AFO?
Wear your brace for up to two hours ON, followed by one hour OFF for a total wearing time of 6 hours. Wear your brace for up 4 hours. Remove the brace and check your skin. If your skin is just pink, re-apply the brace for 4 more hours for a total wearing time of 8 hours.
Why do kids wear AFO braces?
A paediatric AFO brace, which is useful for treating many conditions related to the foot and ankle, allows children to find stability in walking and freedom of movement appropriate for their age, considering their development and growth.
Does my child need orthotics?
The need for kids orthotics. Children do not normally need custom orthotics until about the age of six years. If at that point a child is still not developing a normal arch, or if in-toeing persists, orthotics may be needed. This is particularly true when the child is involved in athletics and sports activities.
How long does it take to get Smos?
Do this several times a day as often as your schedule will allow. Every day add one or two hours until you achieve full time wear. This process generally takes one to two weeks.
How do AFO braces work?
An AFO, as the name suggests, is a type of orthotics brace that provides support to the foot and ankle. It’s a plastic splint that stabilizes the ankle and foot to keep them in a proper, aligned position. By keeping them firmly in place, it enables accurate and comfortable walking.
What is a foot brace called?
Reviewed on 3/29/2021. Ankle-foot orthosis: A brace, usually made of plastic, that is worn on the lower leg and foot to support the ankle, hold the foot and ankle in the correct position and correct foot drop. Abbreviated AFO. Also known as foot drop brace.
