When people in O&P think of pediatric AFOs, they likely also think of cerebral palsy (CP). As summarized in the introduction of a recent systematic review on this topic, “Orthotic management is a significant and useful treatment option for a number of conditions that affect gait and posture and usually forms part of an overall rehabilitation program established for patients with CP.”1 Yet, while a 2008 review stated that “the results of the reviewed studies suggest positive effects of the use of AFOs on the passive and active ankle ROM [range of motion], gait kinetics and kinematics, as well as on functional activities related to mobility of children with CP,” the authors also qualified that conclusion with the unfortunate declaration that “… the quality of the methods of the 20 studies reviewed is low,” and “studies using high-quality methods are still needed to support evidence-based decisions regarding the use of AFOs for this population.”2
