J Spinal Cord Med, 2007 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2007
This study looks at how children and young people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) walk and use braces over time. Understanding this can help doctors give better advice to patients and families. The study found that younger children at the time of their injury were more likely to walk and keep walking for longer. Also, those with less severe injuries were more likely to walk. The type of brace used also mattered. Less bulky braces were linked to better walking ability. This information can help doctors choose the right braces for their patients.
Clinicians can use these findings to provide realistic expectations and ambulation options to patients and families based on age at injury and neurological impairment.
The study supports the selection of less cumbersome orthotics to improve ambulation levels in children and youth with SCI.
The study reinforces the importance of ambulation training as an integral part of rehabilitation plans for children and adolescents with SCI.