The effect of floor reaction ankle foot orthosis on postural control in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND

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.