What's New in the Management of Foot Deformities in Children With Cerebral Palsy

J Pediatr Orthop. 2018 Jan;38(1):e20-e24. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000000901.

Abstract

Background: Foot deformities have been frequently reported in cerebral palsy (CP), and numerous diagnostic modalities and treatment options have recently been developed to achieve a better level of management for children with CP.

Methods: A thorough search of the English literature, published between January 2013 and March 2016, was performed. A summary of the new findings that had not previously described was reported. The review included recent advances regarding clinical and gait evaluation, orthotic management, botulinum toxin A treatment, and surgical correction.

Results: The review summarized new findings reported in 46 articles and abstracts that were published between January 2013 and March 2016. Older articles were included and cited when an original description was mentioned, or when a change or development of some findings was discussed.

Conclusions: Foot deformity forms an essential part of evaluating children with CP. Dramatic advances have been achieved in gait assessment, conservative management, and surgical correction. Promising results have been reported with the goal to reach a higher level of orthopaedic care and optimize the functional potentials for children with CP.

Level of evidence: Level IV-literature review.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use
  • Cerebral Palsy / complications*
  • Child
  • Foot Deformities / complications
  • Foot Deformities / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Orthopedics / trends
  • Physical Therapy Modalities

Substances

  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A