Orthopedic aspects of neuromuscular disorders in children

Studies using movement analysis confirm that multiple soft tissue releases improve function in the ambulant child with cerebral palsy, and highlight the fine adjustments of ankle-foot orthosis, which benefit children with myelomeningocele. For both of these disorders, there is information with regard to hip subluxation and dislocation. The normal increase of hamstring tightness during childhood is documented, as well as a new approach for surgical release in the nonambulant spastic child. Dramatic survival curves are presented to show the benefit of spinal instrumentation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Finally, there is a useful review and guide for the management of obstetric brachial plexus lesions.