The influence of foot orthoses on the function of a child with developmental delay.
OBJECTIVE
Foot orthoses may lead to improved function when used to control faulty foot biomechanics. The purpose of this case report was to describe the influence of modified stabilizing foot splints (SFSs) on the function of a child with developmental delay.


METHODS
The participant was a 19-month-old girl with hypotonia and developmental delay due to hydrocephalus and congenital absence of the corpus callosum.


METHODS
Modified SFSs were created with the child's feet held in a subtalar neutral position.


RESULTS
Five items from the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale II (rise to stand, standing, lowering, cruising, and stepping forward) were tracked over three weeks, under three conditions: with shoes and orthoses, shoes only, and barefoot. The ability to perform these items was improved when wearing shoes and orthoses.


CONCLUSIONS
The outcomes indicate that future study of the modified SFS as an intervention is warranted.
George
Deborah Ann
DA
Physical Therapy Program, The University of Findlay, Findlay, Ohio 44883, USA. george@findlay.edu
Elchert
Lindsay
L
D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D005528:Foot; D005531:Foot Deformities, Acquired / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D007223:Infant; D009048:Motor Skills; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D004856:Postural Balance; D013165:Splints