SMOs (Supramalleolar Orthoses) provide support for the foot and ankle, helping to stabilize those parts of the body, improve alignment, and promote natural movement. Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing SMO shoes for your child.
Fasteners: A shoe fastened with laces will offer more security than a shoe fastened with Velcro, which can be helpful to ensure a secure fit. For children who are not able to tie their own shoes, BILLY Footwear is an excellent option as they are made with orthotics in mind and have both laces and a zipper, allowing more independence when donning shoes.
Size: Always fit shoes with orthotics donned and with the child in standing to ensure the correct fit.
Length: There should be ~½ of space from the tip of the longest toe to the end of the shoe. Resist the urge to buy a shoe that is too big, as this can be a tripping hazard.
Width: The width of the shoe, including the toe box, should be wide enough to comfortably fit without squishing the orthotic and toes. Select a shoe that can easily be widened at the opening and tongue to allow easy donning.
Socks: Socks should be tall enough that they show over the top of the orthotic. Too short of socks may cause excess rubbing and irritation to the skin.
Tips and Tricks:
- Take the orthotic(s) with you when buying shoes as they should always be fit with the orthotics on
- Try removing the insole of the shoe if slightly snug to allow extra room and improve the fit
- Know the return policy before you buy shoes
Brand Recommendations*:
Made with Orthotics in Mind:
Other Brands with Good Options:
*Brands are in no way affiliated with Blue Bird Day and are provided for your convenience.
Blue Bird Day—the first therapeutic preschool and kindergarten program in the nation—fosters socialization, sensory regulation, and pre-academic learning in children ages 2-7 years. Our compassionate therapists practice a relationship-based and family-centered approach, provide parent training, and collaborate on goals and individualized intensive treatment plans for your child.
We believe in a collaborative and multi-disciplinary team approach to therapy. A team of occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, developmental therapists, behavioral therapists, physical therapists, and therapeutic assistants are created for each child to ensure child and family are fully supported and the best possible results are achieved.
Options for individualized, group and virtual therapy sessions are available as well.
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