Innovative controlled dynamic stretching orthotics for easy everyday use in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND: Contractures are a common complication of neurological conditions. Although controlled dynamic stretching (CDS) orthotics are a promising new device, there are no data on their efficacy in children. This study was designed to see if CDS orthotics could treat contractures in children.METHODS: Patients with or developing contractures were provided with CDS orthotics in addition to their regular multidisciplinary treatment in this observational study. As primary endpoint passive range of motion (PROM) was assessed with the neutral/zero method at 12 weeks (FU1) and 12 months (FU2), goal attainment scale (GAS) and subjective experienced were assessed as secondary endpoint.RESULTS: We treated 18 children with a total of 39 orthotics for several joints, (mean age 7.5 years, range 5-15 years). The median PROM for all treated joints improved from -15° to -1.5° at FU1 (P<0.001) and towards 0° at FU2 (P=0.004). The CDS orthotics were globally well tolerated. GAS goals have shown improvement for 80% of the goals at FU2.CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to show improvements in PROM attributed to CDS orthotics in the majority of children after a short period of treatment with consecutive clinical improvements in individually set goals in children with chronic neurological conditions.