What is a Supra Malleolar Orthoses (SMO)?
A Supra Malleolar Orthoses is a custom-made inner foot and ankle brace. Through the use of extremely thin, flexible thermoplastic, the SMO compresses the soft tissues of the foot stabilizing children while still allowing for natural development, improving standing balance, walking, running and increase ankle stability. The SMO may also help children who toe walk by preventing toe walking with a unique brace design.
Indications your child may need SMO's:
- Pronation
- Hypotonia
- Triplanar instability in weight bearing
- Instability to stand independently
- Mild toe-walking
- Developmental delay
- Delay in acquiring gross motor skills
- Poor coordination or balance
Types of SMO's:
What is an Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO)?
An Ankle Foot Orthoses is a custom-made inner foot and ankle brace that is taller than your traditional SMO, sitting just below the knee, to correct foot and ankle disorders in children. The AFO has more control in the sagittal plane (front and back) and may have a joint or hinge at the ankle or may be fixed in one position to help improve walking patterns by reducing, preventing or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot and by supporting weak muscles.
Indications your child may need AFO's:
- Foot/Ankle Instability
- Knee Instability
- Hypertonia or Hypotonia
- Contractures
- Drop Foot
- Extreme toe walking
Types of AFO's: