5 Clinical Trials for Various Conditions
To compare and contrast the clinical, gait and parent-reported outcomes following either non-operative (casting) or operative treatment for children with idiopathic toe walking (ITW) and determine whether there are specific genes associated with ITW.
Idiopathic Toe Walking (ITW) is a diagnosis normally of exclusion and likely, consequently, is approached in vastly varying ways of intervention, including serial casting, Botox injections and physical therapy. There is some evidence in the literature that children with ITW can somewhat correct their lack of heel-strike gait pattern at least temporarily. Kinesio Taping (KT) method is an intervention that is used in the outpatient physical therapy setting for various conditions such as post-operative edema, muscle facilitation of weakened rotator cuff muscles, and functional corrections in children with torticollis. This pilot study will strive to determine if KT may be effective by providing proprioceptive and neuromuscular re-education through thermal and mechanical fascial impositions, thereby improving passive joint range of motion (ROM) through reduction of passive muscle stiffness and improving ambulation through neuromuscular re-education in children with idiopathic toe walking. We will quantify passive muscle stiffness of the gastrocnemius and opposing anterior tibialis using non-invasive Shear Wave Elastography (SWE). Further we look at the kinematics and kinetics of the child's ankle during the gait cycle to further determine any effect(s) of KT on functional walking outcome measures. The intent is that the results from this study will serve as a platform from which to expound look at the long-term, if any, effects of KT on the muscle property and gait cycle pattern in children with ITW.
The present project will focus on evaluating the technical efficacy of the in-shoe gait monitoring device (ActiveGait) through laboratory based biomechanical gait assessments of children who exhibit gait deviations due to CP or idiopathic toe walking wearing the device.
The purpose of the study is to determine whether the use of waterproof padding in short leg walking casts will lead to an increase in cast-related complications, as compared to the standard non-waterproof casting in children.
The purpose of this study is to examine the change in ankle plantar flexion while walking, following treatment with the Ankle Dorsiflexion Dynasplint (AFD) for children diagnosed as Toe Walkers. For twelve weeks, patients will either receive the standard treatment or the same standard treatment and the Dynaslint worn at night.