A comparison of foot-switch and EMG analysis of varus deformities of the feet of children with cerebral palsy.

Fifty-one children with cerebral palsy who were candidates for surgery for equinovarus deformities of the foot had their gait evaluated by means of foot-switches and electromyography to determine the contribution of the anterior tibialis and posterior tibialis muscles to the deformity. Seven EMG patterns and five foot-switch patterns were identified, but there was no correlation between the EMG and foot-switch patterns. Foot-switch data alone could not identify the deforming muscles or their patterns, so are not adequate for planning surgical correction of varus feet of children with cerebral palsy.