Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 3, 2026
Author Spotlight: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Movement Observation in Cerebral Palsy
Published on: August 9, 2024
Effect of an Ankle Foot Orthosis Intervention for Children With Non-Central Nervous System Cancers: A Pilot Study
Lynn R Tanner1, Mary C Hooke, Scott Hinshon
1Developmental and Rehabilitation Services (Mss Tanner and Hansen, Dr. Hooke), Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Minneapolis; School of Nursing (Dr Hooke), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis; and Orthotic Care Services (Mr Hinshon), Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Purpose:
Children with cancer are at risk for physical performance limitations. In this pilot study we investigated the feasibility and initial efficacy of an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) in children with non-central nervous system cancer with peripheral weakness.
Methods:
Participants included children aged 5 to 11 years diagnosed with cancer. Children wore AFOs for 1 cycle of chemotherapy. Pre- and postintervention adverse events, adherence, gait, strength, range of motion, activity, and fatigue were measured.
Results:
Six of 7 children completed the study; none of the 7 reported adverse events. Positive trends were observed in step length (46.23-49.25 cm), dorsiflexion strength (19.25-24.50 lb), ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (0.5-8°), and activity (7850-9857 epochs). Negative trends observed included cadence and fatigue ratings. No change was observed in the 6-minute walk or parent-reported fatigue.
Conclusions:
An AFO intervention is feasible in children with cancer. Initial efficacy results warrant further study.
More Related Videos
08:55Use of a Foot-Induced Digitally Controlled Resistance Device for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation in Patients with Foot Paresis
Published on: July 7, 2023
09:01Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018