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 an increase in ankle stability. The SMO may also help children who toe walk by preventing toe walking with a unique brace design. SMOs are one of several orthotic device types we offer as part of our pediatric services.
Indications Your Child May Need SMOs
Understanding SMOs
What is an SMO?
SMOs, or SupraMalleolar Orthosis, are a type of orthotic device specifically designed for young children. They are made from a flexible material that can be molded to fit the contours of your child's feet and ankles, providing the necessary support for proper alignment and function. SMOs are typically used for children who have issues such as flat feet, high arches, or other foot-related concerns.
How it Works
SMOs, or Supramalleolar Orthoses, are specialized braces designed to support the foot and ankle. They are typically used for children who have issues with pronation (walking flat-footed), hypotonia (low muscle tone), or other conditions affecting foot alignment and stability. For children needing additional ankle support, an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) may also be recommended.
Benefits of SMOs for Children
Support for Growing Feet
Children's feet are still developing, and they can be more susceptible to issues due to their rapidly changing anatomy. SMOs provide critical support that helps guide proper foot development during this crucial growth phase.
Improving Alignment
Poor foot alignment can lead to various problems, not just in the feet but throughout the body. SMOs help align the foot and ankle properly, which can prevent issues like knee pain, hip problems, and even back pain down the line.
Enhancing Mobility and Comfort
SMOs can alleviate discomfort by providing cushioning and stability, enhancing mobility so children can participate in physical activities with greater ease and confidence.
Preventing Future Issues
By addressing foot and ankle problems early on, SMOs can help prevent more severe issues in the future. Early intervention can be key in avoiding complications that might require more extensive treatments later.
3D Printed SMOs
Our advanced 3D printed SMO options offer precision-fit designs for a wide range of pediatric needs.
Flex
Revolutionary flexible SMO
- Unparalleled comfort
- All around compression
- Soft proprioceptive heel
- Low-tone patients (1-5 yo)
Flex TW
Flex for Toe Walkers
- All benefits of Flex
- Extended posterior height
- Optimized design
- Toe walking patients (1-5 yo)
Fusion
2-material SMO
- Unique hybrid design
- Comfortable adaptive innerboot
- Soft proprioceptive heel
- Pronation & supination version
Fusion TW
Fusion with posterior extension
- All benefits of Fusion
- Toe-walking patients
Active
Heavy-duty SMO
- Support & control
- Thin, lightweight, breathable
- Suitable for severe SMO cases
- Wide range of patients
Active XT
Active SMO with extended height
- All benefits of Active
- Extended height
- Additional strap
- Wide range of patients
HiTek Fabrication Traditional Plastic SMOs
Proven traditional plastic SMO designs for a variety of pediatric conditions.
HT-BigStep
Children with hypotonia
- For patients who have pronation
- For patients who have low muscle tone (Hypotonia)
- For patients who have triplanar instability in weight bearing
- For patients who have an inability to stand independently
- For toe-walking
- Into an AFO
- For clubfoot
- For metatarsus adductus (reverse trim lines)
HT-BigStep Sprout
Toe Walking: Mild
- For patients who have pronation
- For patients who have low muscle tone (Hypotonia)
- For patients who have triplanar instability in weight bearing
- For patients who have an inability to stand independently
- For toe-walking
- Into an AFO
- For clubfoot
- For metatarsus adductus (reverse trim lines)
HT-4
High Tone Pronation or Supination: Mild
- Low Tone Pronation: Strong
- For patients with very low tone pronation and sensory issues
- For excessive pronation and/or supination
- High levels of specific foot correction with adequate ankle control
- For frequent floor activities requiring free ankle movement
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule an evaluation appointment with our team today. We offer free evaluations, free consultations with your healthcare team, and free follow-up appointments.