Postural insoles on gait in children with cerebral palsy: Randomized controlled double-blind clinical trial

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Pediatric Rehabilitation
• Movement Science

Background:

• Cerebral Palsy (CP) significantly impacts gait and mobility in children.
• Standard therapeutic interventions for CP gait abnormalities have limitations.
• The potential of specialized footwear, like postural insoles, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of postural insoles in enhancing gait performance in pediatric Cerebral Palsy patients.
• To quantify changes in gait parameters following the use of postural insoles.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 24 children (4-12 years) with CP.
• Participants were assigned to either a control (placebo insoles) or experimental (postural insoles) group.
• Three-dimensional gait analysis was conducted barefoot, in shoes, and with insoles at baseline, 3 months, and 1 month post-withdrawal.

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed significant immediate and 3-month improvements in gait velocity and cadence.
• Key kinematic changes included increased foot dorsiflexion, reduced knee flexion, and decreased internal rotation.
• Observed improvements were not sustained one month after insoles were discontinued.

Conclusions:

• Postural insoles can temporarily enhance gait performance in children with Cerebral Palsy.
• The findings highlight the potential benefits of insoles for improving mobility and function.
• Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and optimal usage protocols.