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Supra Malleolar Orthoses (SMO) & Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO)

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.  

Image of an SMO

Indications Your Child May Need SMOs:

  • 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 SMOs:

What Is an Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO)?
An Ankle Foot Orthosis 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 AFOs:

  • Foot/Ankle Instability
  • Knee Instability
  • Hypertonia or Hypotonia
  • Contractures
  • Drop Foot
  • Extreme toe walking

Types of AFOs:

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