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SMO

SMO

An SMO (Supramalleolar Orthosis) is named after the part of the body it encompasses. It supports the foot up to just above the ankle bone, otherwise known as the malleolus. SMOs are typically prescribed to children who have foot and ankle instability which cannot be controlled by insoles or footwear.

The SMO allows dorsiflexion and plantarflexion (the foot lifting up or down) whilst stopping mediolateral (side to side) movements. It is designed to maintain a neutral heel alignment, whilst supporting the arch of the foot. The SMO is proven to help ambulation by helping to improve standing and walking balance.

SMOs are often made from thermoplastics or 3D printed materials which are lightweight. The SMO has proven to be a very effective, well tolerated orthotic for improving children’s walking gait.

What are the indications for use of a SMO?

Indications for SMO use include:

  • Mediolateral (side to side) ankle instability
  • Pes planus / pes cavus deformity (loss of medial longitudinal arch of the foot / relatively high and stiff arch)
  • Pronation / supination control (rolling in/ rolling out)

What conditions are SMO used for?

  • Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT)
  • Cerebral Palsy (CP)
  • Hypermobility
  • Down Syndrome

This list of conditions is not exhaustive. If you are unsure if you would be suitable for a SMO please contact us to discuss.

Benefits of SMO:

  • SMOs control the alignment of the foot while allowing free ankle motion, helping to assist a natural gait pattern
  • Increased mobility
  • Increased stability
  • Improved balance
  • Lightweight
  • Well tolerated
  • Can fit inside standard footwear

What is the process to receive an SMO?

The process to receive ankle and foot orthotics would be:

  • Assessment
  • Measuring / Casting / Scanning
  • Fitting
  • Review

Your paediatric orthotist will ask you questions about your child’s daily activities and medical history. Our orthotist will undertake a gait examination and watch them walk, paying attention to movements at their affected joints and making observations of how their body moves. Following this, your child’s treatment options and goals will be discussed and a prescription made. A plaster cast or scan of your child’s foot, ankle and leg may be taken to ensure the correct fit. Any devices that are required will be fabricated using materials chosen specifically to meet their requirements. A fitting appointment will be made. All of our prescriptions and fittings are followed by a review to ensure that the treatment is effective and any fine adjustments can be made.

To get in touch or arrange an appointment, you can call us at 0330 088 3949 or email office@orthotics.co.uk.

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