Health Law

Study Shows Braces Help Reduce Symptoms of Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

The use of orthotic devices such as braces have been shown to improve cerebral palsy symptoms in children with diplegia, but little evidence shows whether certain braces are better than others. That’s why researchers decided to develop a study comparing the effectiveness of two different types of braces: hinged vs. dynamic-ankle foot orthoses.

Study Results
The study, which is published in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, involved 15 children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy and specifically sought to determine whether one type of brace was more effective at improving gait and motor function than the other.

The results showed that both types of braces led to significant improvements in gait and there was little difference between the two in this regard. However, neither of the braces seemed to have a significant impact on motor functioning.

A Brief Word on Orthotics
Orthotics are intended to support weak muscles and reduce the risk of joint deformity, and orthotics vary according to the area in need of support. If you have questions about whether an orthotic device is right for your child, contact your primary care physician and ask for a referral to a pediatric orthopedic specialist.

 

Full post as published by Cerebral Palsy Law Blog on February 02, 2009 (boomark / email).