In this episode, Dr. Steve Gard, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Prosthetics and Orthotics, welcomes Elaine Owen, MBE, MSc, SRP, MCSP, to examine how well researchers and journals are following best-practice reporting guidelines for ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) interventions in children with cerebral palsy. Owen explains why three key parameters, AFO ankle angle, the shank-to-vertical angle (SVA) of the AFO-footwear combination, and any tuning or optimization, are essential for understanding, replicating and evaluating these interventions. A review of literature published between 2010 and July 2024 found significant gaps in reporting, with only nine of 64 articles focused on rigid AFOs documenting all three parameters. Owen discusses the confusion surrounding alignment terminology and calls for better training, adequate clinical time and resources, greater involvement of experienced orthotists in research, and stronger reporting expectations from journals and peer reviewers.

Show notes

JPO article: Do Authors and Editors Comply With Best Practice Reporting Guidelines for AFO Interventions in Studies Involving Children With Cerebral Palsy? A Scoping Review

 

O&P Research Insights is produced by Association Briefings.

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