PURPOSE: The aim of this review was to compare the effects of rigid and articulated ankle-foot orthoses on gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP). METHOD: A systematic review was carried out in 4 databases. The papers identified were evaluated on the basis of the following inclusion criteria: (1) design -- controlled clinical trial; (2) population -- children and adolescents with CP; (3) intervention -- rigid or articulated ankle-foot orthoses; and (4) outcome -- improved motor function and gait performance. RESULTS: Seven controlled studies comparing the effects of different ankle-foot orthoses were found. Studies achieved PEDro scores of 3 and 4 for methodological quality. CONCLUSION: There is evidence supporting the use of an articulated ankle-foot orthosis by children with CP, because of the improved function this type of orthosis provides. However, other studies point out the advantages of a rigid orthosis for children with greater impairment related to spasticity and contractures.
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