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Influence of infant-walkers on motor development: mimicking spastic diplegia?
R H Engelbert1, R van Empelen, N D Scheurer
1Department of Paediatric Physical Therapy, University Hospital for Children and Youth, Utrecht, The Netherlands. r.engelbert@wkz.azu.nl
Insights
Early infant walker use is linked to delayed motor development and calf muscle contractures. These devices offer no benefits and increase accident risks, so their use should be discouraged.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neurology
Background:
- Infant walkers are commonly used by parents to facilitate early mobility.
- The developmental impact of infant walker use on infant motor milestones is debated.
- Potential risks associated with infant walker use require thorough investigation.
Observation:
- Two case studies detail infants using walkers during the walking acquisition period.
- Qualitative and quantitative motor development were assessed in relation to walker use.
- Observed outcomes included disharmonic and delayed motor development.
Findings:
- Infant walker use was associated with delayed motor development.
- Contractures of calf muscles were noted in infants using walkers.
- Motor development patterns mimicking spastic diplegia were observed.
Implications:
- Infant walkers do not positively influence motor development.
- Early walker use may negatively impact motor milestones and muscle development.
- Discouraging infant walker use is recommended due to potential harm and lack of benefit.
Abstract:
We discuss two patients, who used an infant walker during the period in which they learned to walk. The influence on qualitative and quantitative motor development is illustrated in this report. A disharmonic and delayed motor development, contractures of the calf-muscles and motor development mimicking spastic diplegia are considered to be caused by the early use of infant walkers. As illustrated by the literature, infant walkers do not have any positive effect on improving motor development. Vulnerability of infants with regards to accidents is increased. In our opinion, the use of infant-walkers should be discouraged.