SureStep SMO - Donning the Surestep SMO; Donning Procedure Steps; Surestep SMO Trimming; Trimming Guidelines

Donning
1. Open the Surestep SMO from behind and underneath the
foot, then pull the brace forward onto the foot. Fig. 1
2. While cupping the heel of the SMO in one hand, supinate
the foot inside of the brace. Fig. 2
To do this, you will need to twist or rotate the foot outward
by lifting under the ball of the foot. The ankle will also need
to dorsiex (lift up on the front of the foot). This will allow you
to look down into the device under the foot and see that the heel
is properly touching the back.
3. Next, push the foot back into the brace until you feel that it
has made contact at the back of the heel and is positioned
within the heel opening. Fig. 2
4. Maintain this position by squeezing the device while you
begin to fasten and tighten the straps. Fig. 3
5. Don shoe once SMO has been properly t.
Trim Line
Surestep SMOs should be trimmed behind the ball
of the foot and to the base of the 5
th
(pinky) toe.
Adjustments may be necessary for proper t.
Scissors are recommended for trimming device.
1. On the medial side (inside) of the foot, braces should be
trimmed behind the big toe, and the ball of the foot. Fig. 4
It is important that this edge is back far enough so that it does not
impinge on the boney portion of the ball of the foot.
2. On the lateral side (outside) of the foot, braces should be
trimmed just behind the 5
th
toe. Fig. 5
Extend or push up on the 5
th
toe to make sure the t is correct.
This will simulate the movement the toe experiences while walking.
The plastic edge of the brace should not restrict this movement.
3. If the device ts properly, there will be a gap between the
edges of the plastic on the top of the foot. Fig. 6
Depending on the child, this gap may be as narrow as 3/8” on small
feet (about the width of a pinky nger) or as wide as 1” on larger
children (about as wide as a thumb). These plastic wings should
never touch or overlap.
Redness
Some redness is okay! When the Surestep SMO is properly worn, it is normal for slight redness to
appear in areas where the brace surrounds the foot. If blistering or severe redness occurs, please
notify your healthcare professional.
Tightness
Surestep SMOs must be TIGHT to provide the compression and support your child needs to
achieve stability. Remember, snug is not enough.
Growth
In order for the Surestep system to be eective, it must t your child properly. On average, children
outgrow their braces in one year. However, every child develops dierently and this time frame may
vary. If you begin to notice issues with the t of your child’s braces, please schedule an appointment
with your healthcare professional to be evaluated.
Care
Use mild soap and water or isopropyl alcohol to clean the plastic and velcro straps. Allow the
device to air dry before donning.
Footwear
Proper footwear is required to achieve optimal correction. Always wear a wide, deep shoe
with laces in combination with this product.
Tips & Tricks
SURESTEP SMO FITTING & TRIMMING | ENGLISH
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
Fig. 2
Fig. 1
correct
incorrect
Surestep has developed a line of footwear that was specically designed for
children who wear orthoses. Additional width, depth and exibility accommodate
orthotic devices and make for a comfortable t. Our shoes are available to purchase
directly through your orthotist or online at surestep.net.
Surestep products are latex free.
surestep.net