What is oversplint footwear?
Oversplint footwear is made with additional opening, width and depth so it can be worn over lower-limb orthoses such as AFOs or SMOs.
Why can standard shoes be difficult with an AFO or SMO?
An orthosis adds bulk around the heel, ankle or foot and can increase both the width and depth required inside the shoe.
What should you fit first?
The orthosis should be fitted correctly to the foot before footwear is assessed around the combined foot-and-device shape.
How much width is needed?
There should be enough width for the orthosis to sit naturally without the shoe squeezing or distorting it.
Why is depth important?
Extra depth helps accommodate the device without excessive pressure on the top of the foot, ankle or toes.
Why is a wide opening useful?
A generous opening makes it easier to place the foot and orthosis fully into the shoe without forcing either one.
How should the heel sit?
The heel and orthosis should sit fully back and down in the shoe with reasonable control during walking.
How should the shoe fasten?
The fastening should close securely with enough adjustment remaining to hold the shoe in place without excessive pressure.
What about toe room?
The toes should not be compressed, and the front of the orthosis should not be forced into the end of the shoe.
Should you buy a much bigger shoe?
No. Extra length alone does not solve a lack of width or depth and can allow the foot to slide excessively.
Can removable insoles create more room?
Sometimes. Removing the original insole can create useful depth, but only if the manufacturer or fitting approach allows it and the shoe remains stable.
What should be checked after walking?
Check that the orthosis has not shifted or distorted and that there are no new pressure areas, rubbing, toe compression or excessive heel movement.
How often should footwear fit be reviewed?
Review is particularly important for children, during growth, after orthosis adjustment or whenever foot size, swelling or the device changes.
Should the orthosis be trimmed to fit the shoe?
Do not alter a prescribed orthosis simply to make it fit footwear. The footwear should accommodate the device correctly, or the fit should be reviewed professionally.
Fit the shoe around the orthosis: sufficient opening, width and depth are more important than simply choosing a longer shoe.
When should professional advice be sought?
Seek review if the orthosis cannot sit fully inside the shoe, the footwear will not fasten securely, the device is being distorted or new pressure or skin problems develop.
