Practical Techniques to Address Pediatric Gait Dysfunction

Pediatric gait dysfunction affects a child’s ability to explore their environment and engage easily in activities with their peers. Identifying the major structural impairments and muscular imbalances which contribute to gait dysfunction is an essential skill for the pediatric physical therapist in order to maximize the child’s functional mobility. While more invasive interventions such as Botox injections or surgery are an option, physical therapists are charged with providing more timely interventions for improved functional outcomes to optimize reimbursement for therapeutic intervention. Physical therapists need to develop biomechanical expertise in order to assess such imbalances and work cooperatively with orthotic providers to come to a team decision on progressiveorthotic intervention for improved ambulation outcomes.

This course will introduce the clinician to assessment techniques for the lower extremity as to the requirements for optimum muscle and biomechanical function for efficient gait. Participants will learn how to perform these assessments and will gain knowledge of the requirements for efficient gait. Attendees will be able to return to the clinic with a clear treatment plan for interventions and/or orthotic intervention, and when to make an informed decision to recommend moreinvasive strategies such as Botox injections or surgery.