title: Foot orthoses for pediatric flexible flatfoot: evidence and current practices among Canadian physical therapists.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study aimed to examine the evidence for flatfoot intervention in children with gross motor delay of neurological origin, and to understand how physical therapists use foot orthoses (FOs) to treat this population.
  
  
  METHODS
  Thirty-four physical therapists employed in Canadian publicly funded pediatric centers were surveyed to explore current practices and beliefs related to FOs.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Responses are discussed in the context of the research literature. Objective physical examination and differentiation between developmental and pathological flatfeet can help clinicians to identify suitable FO candidates, monitor foot posture over time, and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  An evidence-informed approach to assessment and intervention has the potential to improve clinical outcomes for clients with pediatric flatfoot.
authors.affiliation: Children's Program, Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.
authors.forename: Kyra
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kane
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002170:Canada; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005260:Female; D005413:Flatfoot / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D061826:Foot Orthoses; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009048:Motor Skills; D059825:Physical Therapists / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011187:Posture; D013997:Time Factors