Dynamic pedobarographic classification of idiopathic toe-walkers for therapeutical indication

Abstract

Idiopathic toe-walkers (ITWs) pedobarographic analysis has not been described yet nor its possible relationship with orthopedical and developmental characteristics. The objective of this research is to develop a dynamic pedobarographic classification of ITWs to propose a specific therapeutical approach. Through an observational study, 56 ITWs aged 3-6 years were classified by their initial foot contact; differences between idiopatic toe-walking (ITW) types and with respect to 40 control children were calculated by means of ANOVA and Student t-tests. The results show that the three ITW types displayed different step models for pressure and impulse distribution and also for temporal development (p < .05). They also showed different orthopedic and developmental characteristics (p < .05). As a whole, they demonstrated different severity levels, which suggest different therapeutical indications. This study confirms the convenience of a specific orthopedic, developmental, and gait assessment in ITW to clarify therapeutical indication.