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The Effectiveness of Serial Casting and Ankle Foot Orthoses in Treating Toe Walking in Children With Autism Spectrum
Marybeth Barkocy1, Jodi Schilz, Sandra Heimerl
1Division of Physical Therapy (Drs Barkocy, Schilz, Chee, Valdez, and Redmond) and Department of Pediatrics (Dr Heimerl), The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Purpose:
This proof of concept study examined the effectiveness of serial casting (SC) and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) in children with autism spectrum disorder (Ch-ASD) who toe walk (TW). Data collected determined effects of SC, followed by AFO intervention on ankle dorsiflexion (A-DF) passive range of motion and kinematics, and parent-reported functional outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW and have limited A-DF passive range of motion.
Summary Of Key Points:
The 5 participants increased passive range of motion with SC, except for 1 participant's left ankle. Two of 4 participants had near typical A-DF kinematic patterns following SC. The 5 participants improved A-DF during walking following 6 months of AFO use.
Conclusions:
Serial casting increased A-DF ROM and kinematics during walking. Consistent AFO use for walking training improved function and reduced toe walking. Serial casting followed by AFOs is a potential intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW.
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