SPIO - Frequently asked questions
Q: How does SPIO differ from products like Skins?
A: SPIO is six times as compressive as Under Armour, and offers precise sizing options for an intimate fit that acts like a second skin. The fabric is nearly twice as thick providing a stronger compression and rebound than Skins. In addition, SPIO was designed by a clinician to improve proprioception for improved sensory response and motor control. Skins were designed for sports and athletic market to increase circulation.
Q: What is Stabilizing Pressure Input Orthosis (SPIO)?
A: Stabilizing Pressure Input Orthosis (SPIO) assists patients with stability and proprioceptive deficits through deep pressure. Since deep pressure appears to be an important somatic input for balance and movement control, SPIO is designed to provide and enhance deep pressure sensory input around and toward the midline of the body to improve dynamic stability and postural activation.
SPIO was developed in the mid-eighties by Cheryl Allen, a seamstress and mother of two children with special needs, with the cooperation of Nancy Hylton, a physical therapist, orthotist, and co-founder of Children’s Therapy Center. To date, SPIO has two U.S. patents covering the products and methodology. Patent #5782790 and #5957873. SPIO is registered with the FDA as a Class I Medical Device.
Q: Who can use SPIO?
A: SPIO has shown to be effective with kids of all ages: • Syndromes such as Retts, Angelmans and Down Syndrome • Cerebral palsy; Athetoid, Ataxia, Quadriplegia, Spastic diplegia, Hemiplegia • Instability issues • Hypertonia and Hypotonia • Brachial plexus injuries • Autism and Sensory Processing disorders • And related developmental delays and disabilities
*Please note that each individual is unique and results may vary. It is suggested SPIO be used with the recommendation of a clinician.
Q: What are SPIOs made of and what type of systems are available?
A: SPIO is made of a unique lightweight Lycra blend fabric. The multi-directional stretch provides comfort with a strong rebound, aids in compression, is breathable, and comfortable to wear. We offer a variety of systems. If there is a system you would like but don't see listed, please contact us to see how we can meet your needs. SPIO TLSO with neoprene back, attached with hook & loop closure SPIO Upper Body Orthosis with zipper closure at back of neck, and silicone hem for anchoring SPIO Lower Body Orthosis with elastic waistband SPIO Wrist-Hand Orthosis SPIO Gauntlets, wraps, or adult sizes (custom orders only)
Q: How do I care for my SPIO?
A: SPIO’s should be washed at least every other day to ensure proper compression. Wash in mild detergent in warm or cold water and hang to dry. Abuse, altering, or undue rough wear and tear will void the warranty. This includes improper washing and drying in a dryer. The fabric is not fire resistant so the items are not recommended for use at night. To provide maximum benefit a physician or therapist should monitor the use and the effect of the SPIO.
Q: Does SPIO come in adult sizes?
A: SPIO come in standard sizes for children from age birth to mid-teens. However, if you are intersted is discussing the possibility of a custom garment, please contact us at info@milestonestherapy.com.au.
Q: What is the difference between SPIO and other compression garments/systems?
A: The UP Suit or Second Skin, the GPS Orthosis, the Benik vests, and TheraTogs primarily attempt to improve biomechanical stability by exerting inhibitive and counter-stabilizing forces to manage spasticity, muscle pull, and deformity. The effects of providing deep pressure sensory input through the use of these flexible compression systems are only secondary.
Q: My child receives a sense of calm when he wears a weighted vest or has a weighted blanket on him. I find the weighted vest cumbersome. Would a SPIO have the same calming effect?
A: It should. SPIO provides even circumferential deep pressure throughout the area of the body that it covers. Deep pressure has a calming effect on the sensory system. And unlike weighted products, SPIOs can be worn continuously all day and have no break-in period.
Q: Is there a break-in period with SPIO?
A: No. SPIO can be worn immediately for all of the child's waking hours. In fact, it is best for the sensory system to not have the SPIO applied and then removed repetitively throughout the day.
Q: Will my child accommodate to the compression?
A: Unlike some other types of sensory input systems, the very intimate fit and extreme flexibility of SPIOs allows the deep pressure sensory receptors to reset themselves regularly during wear. The result is that there is no accommodation to the input of the orthosis, even with prolonged wear. We have children who have worn them daily for more than 10 years who are still getting great results. Some mistakenly link our compression orthoses with weighted products and believe they are only effective for 10-20 minutes before accommodation occurs. Based on 15 years of clinical practice, this is definitely not so.
Q: Is there a carryover effect with SPIO?
A: Yes. The reason for carryover is that SPIO supports more adaptive movement. As any movement or "feeling for movement" is practiced, it reinforces the connections for that movement in the central nervous system. The more consistently you wear SPIO, the more these movements are practiced, the more carryover.
Carryover also depends on Neurological potential, whether there is potential for more adaptive movements to develop without stability and sensory support. The more severely impaired, the less potential for change or carryover to independent function.
Q: My child has reflux. Should I take the SPIO off while they are eating and if so, when can I put it back on?
A: The SPIO can be worn while eating. For a child with reflux, try loosening the SPIO for digestion. This will work for vests only. If the child shows signs of reflux despite loosening, remove the SPIO for one hour and then reapply.
Q: My child has a feeding tube that I need access to. Is the SPIO easy to use and will the compression of the SPIO harm my child or cause the tube peg to leak?
A: As there are a variety of feeding tubes available today, it is difficult to answer for one specific type. Most are not affected by SPIO and its compression. Simply loosen the vest for feeding. If the SPIO is rubbing on the feeding tube peg, a "donut" of foam or orthopedic felt can be used to decrease localized pressure. If this does not reduce the pressure, a small hole can be cut in the material without the risk of the material fraying. However, we view this as a last resort.
Q: How long can my child wear the SPIO before I need to purchase another one?
A: With proper care (no dryer!), the SPIO should last quite a while. Growth can affect fit, so if you notice the outcome of wearing the SPIO has changed; it may be time for a new one.