Category Archives: Pediatric Feature
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
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
August 2014
Prevention of ACL injuries targets youngest athletes
Some evidence suggests that neuromuscular training before puberty can help further reduce anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury rates. But young children respond differently to instruction than their older counterparts, which means early intervention requires some creativity.
By P.K. Daniel
August 2014
Outcome studies continue to support Ponseti method
Clubfoot researchers have begun to report long-term data that continue to solidify the superiority of the conservative method over surgical intervention in most cases. But variations to the traditional Ponseti method are arising, particularly in developing countries, and may alter outcomes.
By Larry Hand
May 2014
Kids, clothes, and AFOs: Finding just the right fit
When a child is required to wear ankle foot orthoses (AFOs), his or her clothes have to be more than just cute. Trying to match the logistical requirements of AFOs with fashion concerns and psychosocial development can be a challenge for patients and parents alike.
By Shalmali Pal
May 2014
Juvenile hallux valgus: Shoe fit and other considerations
Austrian research suggests too-short shoes may contribute to the development of bunions in children, and genetics also appear to play a role. Most clinicians try to avoid surgery in young patients, instead turning to conservative strategies such as…
By Christina Hall Nettles
February 2014
New flatfoot data rekindle debate over role of obesity
Australian researchers found no correlation between body mass index and prevalence of pediatric flatfoot, but used a different methodology than previous studies that reached an opposite conclusion. The conflicting results have revitalized the ongoing debate on this topic.
By Cary Groner
February 2014
Strength training improves function in children with CP
Research suggests strength training can improve gait and function in children with cerebral palsy. But to be successful, experts say, the training needs to be part of a multifaceted rehabilitation program that accounts for more than the physical limitations imposed by the disease.
By Shalmali Pal
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