Article

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often demonstrate postural control
difficulties. Orthotic management may assist in improving postural control in
these children. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to examine the
influence of floor reaction ankle foot orthosis (FRAFO) on postural flexion
called the crouch position in children with CP. STUDY DESIGN: Quasi-experimental.
METHODS: Eight children with spastic diplegic CP and eight matched typically
developing children participated in this study. Postural control of children with
CP was assessed in a static standing position on a force platform with/without a
FRAFO. The parameters used were centre of pressure (CoP) measures, calculated
from force platform signals including the standard deviation (SD) of excursion;
phase plate portrait and SD of velocity in anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral
(ML) directions. RESULTS: The maximum knee extension was statistically
significant in children with CP when barefoot compared to wearing braced footwear
(p < 0.05, t = 10.01). AP and ML displacement, AP velocity and AP phase plate
portrait of CoP were not statistically significant between children with CP
with/without a FRAFO (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: FRAFO can improve the alignment of
the knee, but may not be helpful in improving postural control in children with
CP in a short time period.

Langue : ANGLAIS