cerebral palsy

[physiosanskrati]

I am dealing with a 6 yrs old CP. After 2 months of contenious PT sessions he has started walking . He is a triplegic with everted foot and genu recurvatum. Now he is walking indipendently with KAFO'S but takes a sideways path even after having a good hip strength. He is able to walk correctly with support . My dillema is about prescribing sticks . Shall i give support to a child who is able to walk independently?

[sdkashif]

As far as the suport from splints are concerned, you should continue to use the orthotic devices according to your assessment if the muscle imbalance persists. Some children may learn to walk independently. However, many children have to use the walking aids. e.g. ladderback chair, two walking sticks, quadripods, tripods, one tripod, one walking stick. Educate the gait according to the child ability.