"The Effectiveness of Serial Casting and Ankle Foot Orthoses in Treatin" by Marybeth Barkocy, Jodi Schilz et al.
 

The Effectiveness of Serial Casting and Ankle Foot Orthoses in Treating Toe Walking in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-1-2021

Abstract

PURPOSE: This proof of concept study examined the effectiveness of serial casting (SC) and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) in children with autism spectrum disorder (Ch-ASD) who toe walk (TW). Data collected determined effects of SC, followed by AFO intervention on ankle dorsiflexion (A-DF) passive range of motion and kinematics, and parent-reported functional outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW and have limited A-DF passive range of motion.

SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS: The 5 participants increased passive range of motion with SC, except for 1 participant's left ankle. Two of 4 participants had near typical A-DF kinematic patterns following SC. The 5 participants improved A-DF during walking following 6 months of AFO use.

CONCLUSIONS: Serial casting increased A-DF ROM and kinematics during walking. Consistent AFO use for walking training improved function and reduced toe walking. Serial casting followed by AFOs is a potential intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW.

Publication Title

Pediatr Phys Ther

ISSN

1538-005X

Volume

33

Issue

2

First Page

83

Last Page

90

DOI

10.1097/PEP.0000000000000784

Share

COinS