Ankle Foot Orthosis on Muscle Activity in Cerebral Palsy

Efficacy of Solid Versus Ground Reaction Ankle Foot Orthosis on Muscular Activity in Children With Spastic Diplegic in Cerebral Palsy

To compare the effect of solid ankle foot orthosis and ground reaction foot orthosis on the muscle activity in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Functional Classification Scale III).

Few studies have examined muscular activity via electromyography (EMG) during quiet standing in children with cp.

A few studies have examined the benefits of ground reaction ankle foot orthosis, showing that it could effectively reduce or eliminate the crouch position in children with spastic cerebral palsy however little is known about the benefits of GRAFOs on postural control mechanisms in static standing in children with CP.

Previous Studies suggested that appropriate tuning of ankle foot orthosis properties may reduce muscle demand for children with CP.

So, this study may be a guide in management of postural instability in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy in standing position.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Spasticity level II in lower limb muscles according to Modified Ashworth Scale.
• Able to follow order.
• Aged from 6 to 12 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Visual or obvious detected vestibular sensory disorders or cerebellar disease.
• Botox injection in the last 6 months.
• Cognitive deficits or disturbed conscious level.