Q: What is Stabilizing Pressure Input Orthosis (SPIO™)
Q: Who can use SPIO™?
Q: What are SPIOs made of and what type of systems are available?
Q: Does SPIO™ come in adult sizes?
Q: What is the difference between SPIO™ and other compression garments/systems?
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?
Q: Is there a break-in period with SPIO™?
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?
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?
Q: How long will it last? How long can my child wear the SPIO™ before I need to purchase another one?
Q: How do I know my SPIO fits properly after I receive it?
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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 Vest with neoprene back, attached with hook & loop closure
SPIO Shirt with hook and loop closure at back of neck
SPIO Pants with elastic waistband
SPIO Glove
SPIO Gauntlets, wraps, or adult sizes (custom orders only)
Photos on Product Page
Back to top
Q: Does SPIO™ come in adult sizes?
A: SPIO™ does not offer standardized sizing for adults at this time. However, if you are intersted is discussing the possibility of a custom garment, please contact us at
info@spioworks.com. We are slowly developing new products to the line.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
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.
Back to top
If you have any questions or want general information, please contact us on our toll free number at 1-877-997-SPIO (7746), or e-mail us at info@spioworks.com.