Sure step

Surestep occupies a specialized niche in the pediatric orthotics market, focusing on mobility solutions for children with hypotonia, or low muscle tone. The company's origin is deeply personal; it was founded in 2000 by Bernie Veldman, a certified orthotist, who was driven to find a better solution for his son, Kevin, who experienced severe pronation. Frustrated with traditional rigid orthotics that were often painful and limited movement, Veldman developed a new approach. This led to the creation of the Surestep Supra-Malleolar Orthosis (SMO), the company's core product.

The business operates on a B2B2C model, manufacturing custom orthotic devices at its South Bend, Indiana headquarters and selling them through a network of orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) partners across the United States and in over 30 countries. The primary clients are pediatric patients, often diagnosed with conditions like Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, or general developmental delays, who exhibit pronation and instability. The Surestep system's distinct feature is its use of thin, flexible thermoplastic to apply circumferential compression around the foot. This method stabilizes the foot to properly align the skeletal anatomy, which in turn improves balance and encourages a more natural gait, allowing children to run and jump. This contrasts with traditional braces that often work by rigidly wedging the foot into place. In December 2022, Surestep was acquired by Hanger, Inc., a major provider of O&P patient care services, but continues to operate as an independent brand led by Veldman.

Keywords: pediatric orthotics, hypotonia, low muscle tone, pronation, custom bracing, SMO, mobility solutions, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, developmental delay, children's orthotics, gait improvement, Bernie Veldman, supra-malleolar orthosis, foot stability, pediatric bracing, compassionate care, Hanger Inc, flexible orthotics, custom-made medical devices