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Efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia: a systematic review
1Krannert School of Physical Therapy, the University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Insights
This systematic review found low-level evidence that orthoses may benefit children with hypotonia. More research is needed to determine optimal timing, type, and combination with physical therapy for pediatric orthotic interventions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Orthotics and Prosthetics
- Neuromuscular Disorders
Background:
- Hypotonia in children affects motor development and function.
- Orthotic interventions are frequently used to support children with hypotonia.
- Evidence regarding the efficacy of orthoses for this population is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on the efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia.
- To summarize the current state of evidence for orthotic use in pediatric hypotonia.
- To identify gaps in the existing research.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted using fifteen search terms.
- Articles focused on hypotonia, orthotic use, and physical therapy in children were included.
- Included articles were assessed for evidence level and reported outcomes.
Main Results:
- Ten articles met the inclusion criteria for the review.
- No Level I evidence was found, indicating low-quality evidence overall.
- Foot orthoses and supramalleolar orthoses showed potential benefits for body structure and activity, but participation outcomes were not reported.
Conclusions:
- The current evidence for the efficacy of orthoses in children with hypotonia is limited and of low level.
- Key unanswered questions include optimal timing for orthotic intervention, comparative efficacy of different orthotic types, and the role of combined physical therapy.
- Further high-quality research is required to guide clinical practice for pediatric hypotonia management with orthoses.
Purpose:
The purpose of this systematic review of the literature was to determine the efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia and provide a concise summary of the state of the evidence in this area.
Methods:
Fifteen search terms were used to find articles addressing children with hypotonia, orthotic use, and physical therapy.
Results:
Ten articles met the inclusion criteria, but no level I evidence was found. Data were reported for body structure and activity components, but not participation outcomes. Current evidence suggests that foot orthoses and supramalleolar orthoses may benefit children with hypotonia; however, the evidence is low level.
Conclusion:
The evidence for efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia continues to have gaps with the following questions still unanswered: When is the optimal time to introduce orthoses? Are foot orthoses or supramalleolar orthoses more efficacious? Should orthoses be combined with physical therapy?
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