Toe walking. For some kids it’s a brief detour on the road to normal steps. But for others, it’s a hard habit to break.

That’s why Surestep created the Toe Walking SMO. Although it may sound like a new product, it’s actually a modification of our standard SMO. You’ll get the same great Surestep quality and innovation (flexible plastic, trimlines, etc.), but with the added benefit of finally kicking that toe walking habit.

Who Is It Right/Wrong For?

The Toe Walking SMO is ideal for kids with low muscle tone who toe walk due to one of several causes:

• Sensory issues
• Instability
• Pronation

It is not intended for kids with high muscle tone or spasticity. If your child toe walks and falls in to one of these two categories, talk to your orthotist or call Surestep at 877-462-0711 to discuss a more customized solution from our central fabrication department.

How Does It Work?

The only difference between the standard Surestep SMO and the Toe Walking SMO is the posterior extension, which serves as a reminder for your child to get off his or her toes.

While not painful, it makes toe walking uncomfortable by gently pressing in to the calf muscle. But your child will still be able to perform basic movements such as jumping and climbing stairs which temporarily requires going up on toes.

What Should I Do If My Child Toe Walks?

Step one is to not panic. Some toe walking is common, especially when your child first starts taking independent steps. But there’s a good rule of thumb to keep in mind. If he or she has been walking for more than a year and toe walks most or all of the time, discuss this with your pediatrician. Physical therapy will likely be needed.

And for some, physical therapy is enough. If not, bracing may be the right solution.

For Physical Therapists And Orthotists

As professionals, there a few other important things to know:

• The same measurements are used as the standard Surestep SMO.
• The Surestep Toe Walking SMO does not block plantarflexion. Instead, it attacks the primary sensory and stability deficits. Your patients will still be able to jump and go up on their toes when needed.
• It is available with standard Surestep SMO trimlines or a full footplate.
• To order, make a note on the order form that you want this modification.
• Once toe walking is corrected, it can be trimmed down to a standard Surestep SMO.

Learn more about the Surestep Toe Walking SMO