title: Efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia: a systematic review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this systematic review of the literature was to determine the efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia and provide a concise summary of the state of the evidence in this area.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifteen search terms were used to find articles addressing children with hypotonia, orthotic use, and physical therapy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Ten articles met the inclusion criteria, but no level I evidence was found. Data were reported for body structure and activity components, but not participation outcomes. Current evidence suggests that foot orthoses and supramalleolar orthoses may benefit children with hypotonia; however, the evidence is low level.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The evidence for efficacy of orthoses for children with hypotonia continues to have gaps with the following questions still unanswered: When is the optimal time to introduce orthoses? Are foot orthoses or supramalleolar orthoses more efficacious? Should orthoses be combined with physical therapy?
authors.affiliation: Krannert School of Physical Therapy, the University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana.
authors.forename: Anna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Weber
authors.forename: Kathy
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Martin
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D061826:Foot Orthoses; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009123:Muscle Hypotonia / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D055815:Young Adult