Category Archives: Special Section
February 2015
Study questions utility of adult balance test in concussed kids
With head trauma becoming increasingly worrisome in sports these days, a significant concern is whether the same protocols for clearing an athlete to return to sports should be used in both adults and children. Research from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center suggests that the…
By Chris Klingenberg Continue reading
February 2015
Shoe flexibility influences gait characteristics in early walkers
A recent study published in the winter issue of Pediatric Physical Therapy found that children just learning to walk may have altered gait characteristics when wearing flexible shoes.
By Erin Boutwell Continue reading
February 2015
Treating and preventing ankle sprains in children
High rates of chronic ankle instability in children suggest a need for better prevention and treatment of ankle sprains in young patients, but researchers are just starting to explore whether clinical approaches designed for adults will also be effective in their younger counterparts.
By P.K. Daniel Continue reading
February 2015
Cerebral palsy and knee pain: management tips
Knee pain is common in children with CP, but given the many health challenges facing this patient population, knee symptoms may not be given high priority. Proper diagnosis and treatment of knee pain, however, can be key to maximizing a childʼs mobility and quality of life.
By Shalmali Pal Continue reading
November 2014
Parents: How to make them your clinical allies
While the patient is always the practitionerʼs first priority, establishing a convivial relationship with a childʼs parents can mean the difference between victory and failure when it comes to diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating lower extremity problems in pediatric patients.
By Shalmali Pal Continue reading
November 2014
Rates of chronic ankle instability in children are surprisingly high
Experts push for better sprain rehab – Primary ankle sprains often occur before adulthood, and a recent literature review from Australia suggests that some pediatric populations exhibit a high rate of ankle injury recurrence and chronic ankle instability (CAI).
By P.K. Daniel Continue reading
November 2014
Gait compensations vary in kids with limb length discrepancies
Location of shortening is key factor – Contrary to popular perceptions, children with limb length discrepancy (LLD) may each use multiple compensatory strategies when they are walking, depending on where their discrepancy is, and those gait patterns may present a dilemma for practitioners.
By Larry Hand Continue reading
November 2014
Below-knee amputation level has subtle functional effects
Syme, transtibial gaits are similar – The relative functional benefits of transtibial and Syme amputations in adults have been discussed in the medical literature, but few studies have addressed similar issues in pediatric patients.
By Hank Black Continue reading
November 2014
Toe walking researchers revisit idiopathic label
Two recent literature reviews underscore the lack of high-level evidence to support the various treatments available for idiopathic toe walking. But new research is starting to fill that void, and is also engendering new theories about factors that may contribute to the condition.
By Larry Hand Continue reading
August 2014
SureStep SMO
The SureStep SMO remains the most advanced method of controlling excessive pronation and providing stability to the hypotonic population. Suitable for patients up to 80 lbs. Continue reading
August 2014
BigShot/BigShot Lite
A growing child means eventually outgrowing the original SureStep SMO. The BigShot and BigShot Lite are the perfect solutions for older children who still need the stability of SureStep. Continue reading
August 2014
Indy 2 Stage
A uniquely designed orthosis developed to help children reach their potential. This exceptional “orthosis within an orthosis” allows for the SureStep SMO to be utilized independent of the AFO. Children can work through a variety of transitional skills without impeding normal muscle function. Continue reading
August 2014
PullOver & Advanced
The SureStep PullOver is an amazing tool that not only facilitates improved stability of the foot and ankle complex using a SureStep SMO, but it is also the only SMO that incorporates a true dorsiflexion assist through the use of a removable proximal strut. Continue reading
August 2014
HEKO & HEKO PreFab
SureStep HEKO is the first and only pediatric hyper extension knee orthosis to incorporate a 4-axis knee hinge, for smooth, anatomically correct flexion and extension. This exceptional device provides localized control of the knee, preventing hyperextension, valgus and varus, while allowing full flexion and extension. With adjustable extension stops, the HEKO offers up to 30 degrees of adjustability. Continue reading
August 2014
Criss Crossers & De-Rotation Straps
The first and only device developed to discourage w-sitting, Criss Crossers use a unique audio cue to remind children to change their position. Continue reading
August 2014
TLSO
The SureStep TLSO has redefined spinal management. The soft, flexible plastic serves well to create improved upright positioning, while still allowing for slight movement in all planes. Continue reading
August 2014
Shoes/Sandals
SureStep shoes have been custom designed specifically for children who wear orthoses. Their wider, deeper heel, toe box and instep allow for adequate room and a comfortable fit. The unique tread promotes intrinsic movement and flexibility while a special “cut-line” allows for easy shoe modifications. Continue reading
August 2014
Components
SureStep HEKO Hinge, SureStep DA Hinge, SureStep Rivet Press, SureStep Free Motion Hinge & SureStep Dorsiflexion Assist Band Continue reading
August 2014
Defining Culture
“Enriching and transforming lives through compassionate care and innovation” is our company mission statement. As our focus is on the pediatric special needs population, it’s pretty easy to stay attentive to that mission. Continue reading
August 2014
Robotic ankle training for CP transitions from lab to clinic
A robotic system developed at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), previously shown to have efficacy in a research lab setting, is also effective when used in a physical therapy clinic for ankle training in children with…
By Hank Black Continue reading
August 2014
Early focus on gross motor skills may benefit children with autism
In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), lower fine and gross motor skills are associated with higher disease severity scores, according to new research that supports the concept of earlier motor skills intervention in this population.
By Shalmali Pal Continue reading
August 2014
BMI does not drop after surgical realignment for Blount disease
Surgical correction of the varus alignment that is characteristic of Blount disease does not lead to greater patient activity or reduction in body mass index (BMI), according to a recent study.
By Hank Black Continue reading
August 2014
Understanding Hypotonia
Diagnostic challenges should not delay clinical intervention – Hypotonia, or abnormally low muscle tone, is by itself not a disorder but a symptom of an enormous array of issues—many of which can be difficult to diagnose accurately.
By Christina Hall Nettles Continue reading
August 2014
Gait: The Cornerstone of Intervention
Quantifying the effects of hypotonia starts in the clinic – Effective management of children with hypotonia requires an understanding of how the condition affects gait. Clinicians typically rely on their professional experience when discussing the effects of hypotonia on gait in pediatric patients, partly because they trust that experience…
By Cary Groner Continue reading
August 2014
The Importance of Gross Motor Skills
Early intervention can help provide a solid foundation – Many kids with Down syndrome, autism, and other neurological conditions may experience biomechanical limitations in the form of delayed development of gross motor skills. One of the drivers of that delay can be hypotonia.
By Shalmali Pal Continue reading
