Toe Walking SMO for Children in Hamilton
Gentle Support to Encourage Heel-to-Toe Walking
If your child walks on their toes most of the time, a Toe Walking SMO may help them get their heels down more often. It is a light, flexible brace that wraps the foot and finishes just above the ankle bones, worn inside the shoe.
At Foot Foundation in Hamilton, we first work out why your child is toe walking. A brace is only one part of the plan, and it works best alongside stretching and exercises.
Why Do Children Toe Walk?
Some children toe walk out of habit, with no other concerns. Others toe walk because of tight calf muscles, muscle tone differences, sensory sensitivity, or a neurological condition.
The reason matters, because it changes the plan. This is why we assess before recommending any brace. Read more on our Toe Walking & Wobbly Walking page.
What Is a Toe Walking SMO?
The Toe Walking SMO is a version of the Surestep SMO designed for children who walk on their toes. It is made from thin, flexible plastic that fits closely around the foot and ankle.
It is a Dynamic Stability brace, so it steadies the foot without locking the ankle. Your child still uses their own muscles while getting a steadier, flatter base to walk on.
Which Children Might It Help?
A Toe Walking SMO may be considered for children who:
walk on their toes, especially when the ankle still bends up well
also have feet that roll in (pronation)
have low muscle tone and tire easily (hypotonia)
are sensitive to how surfaces feel under their feet (sensory differences)
It is designed for children up to about 36 kg.
If your child's calves are very tight, or the ankle does not bend up past neutral, an SMO alone is usually not enough. We may suggest a 2-Stage Solid AFO or a night stretching brace instead.
Not sure why your child toe walks
How It Works Alongside Other Treatment
A brace on its own rarely solves toe walking. We usually combine it with:
calf and ankle stretches you do at home
strengthening exercises for the feet, ankles and hips
footwear advice
heel-strike practice through games and play
referral or shared care with physio or your paediatrician when needed
What to Expect
Assessment: we check ankle flexibility, muscle tone, walking pattern and development.
Plan: we explain what is driving the toe walking and what will help.
Measuring: if a Toe Walking SMO suits, we capture your child's foot shape.
Fitting: we check comfort, shoes and walking in the brace.
Break-in and reviews: short wearing times to start, then regular check-ups.
Everyday Life With a Toe Walking SMO
Shoes: a supportive shoe with a wide opening, often half to one size bigger.
Socks: thin and snug, worn under the brace.
Skin checks: mild redness fading within 20–30 minutes is fine. Lasting marks or blisters need adjusting.
Cleaning: wipe with a damp cloth, air dry away from heaters.
Expect some toe walking still: progress is usually gradual, and some children toe walk again when barefoot.
Other Options for Toe Walking
Surestep SMO if rolled-in feet and balance are the bigger issue
2-Stage AFO Solid for severe or stiff toe walking
2-Stage AFO PLS for moderate toe walking needing ankle control
Night Stretching Strap AFO to stretch tight calves during sleep
DASS AFO for tighter ankles or higher muscle tone
See all options on our Paediatric Orthotics page.
Where We Fit Toe Walking SMOs in Hamilton
We see children at Hamilton East and Hamilton Central. Costs depend on your child's needs, and we explain everything before anything is ordered. See our price list or meet the team.
Have a question before booking?
You can also book a paediatric podiatrist in Hamilton for a full evaluation first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child grow out of toe walking?
Some do. But persistent toe walking can lead to tight calves and ankle stiffness over time, so it is worth having checked rather than waiting.
Will the SMO stop the toe walking completely?
Not on its own, and not straight away. It gives a steadier, flatter base and helps encourage heel contact, alongside stretching and exercises.
At what age can a child wear one?
Children can be fitted from around walking age. The right time depends on the assessment, not just age.
Can my child still run and play?
Yes. The brace is thin and flexible and fits inside everyday shoes.
What if my child's calves are already tight?
We may recommend a night stretching brace, an AFO, or a stretching programme first, then reassess.
Book a Toe Walking Assessment in Hamilton
If your child walks on their toes most of the time, an assessment will tell you why and what will help.
Need local support? Book a paediatric podiatrist in Hamilton.
