Effect of twister wrap orthosis on foot pressure distribution and balance in diplegic cerebral palsy.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of twister wrap orthosis (TWO) on foot pressure distribution and postural balance in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

Thirty children with spastic diplegic CP, with ages ranging from 6 to 8 years, were assigned randomly into two groups. The control group received the conventional physical therapy and ankle foot orthosis (AFO), whereas the study group received the same program as the control group in addition to TWO. Measurement of foot pressure distribution using a pressure platform as well as stability indices using the Biodex Stability System was performed before and after 12 weeks of the treatment program.

RESULTS

Both groups showed a significant increase in mean and peak planter pressure on forefoot and rear foot with a significant decrease on mid foot after treatment (P⟨0.05). The study group showed a significant improvement in balance after treatment (P⟨0.05) while there was no significant difference in the control group. After treatment, the study group showed significant improvement in planter pressure and balance compared with the control group (P⟨0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TWO could provide correction of foot pressure distribution and improve postural balance in children with spastic diplegic CP.