A systematic review was conducted to explore the reasons for upper-limb orthosis prescription for children with cerebral palsy (CP), to explore related outcomes and outcome measures, and to classify the prescribed orthoses using standard terminology. In reviewing for the effectiveness of the orthoses, the reviewers found no clear connection between reasons for orthosis prescription, outcome measures utilized, and reported effectiveness.
The researchers searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for experimental and observational studies that investigated rigid/thermoplastic upper-limb orthotic interventions for children up to age 18 years who had CP. Sixteen studies met selection criteria. Two of the selected studies described a specific reason for orthosis prescription, six prescribed orthoses to manage a clinical symptom, and eight did not describe a reason. Eight of the selected studies were analyzed for effectiveness according to the intended outcome.
The lack of evidence for upper-limb orthotic intervention for children with CP leads to uncertainty when considering this treatment modality, according to the study’s authors. Future research is needed to evaluate the effect of orthosis wear in relation to intended outcome utilizing robust methods and valid and reliable outcome measures.
The review article was published online March 12 in Disability and Rehabilitation.
