Effects of Achilles Tendon Lengthening on Talipes Equinus in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy / 中国康复理论与实践

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the effects of Achilles tendon lengthening on talipes equinus in children with spastic cerebral palsy. Methods From December, 2013 to June, 2014, seventeen spastic cerebral palsy children with talipes equinus (34 feet) received Achilles ten-don lengthening. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) and surface electromyography from tibialis anterior and medial head of gastroc-nemius were measured before and 8 to 12 months after operation, respectively. ROM of passive and active dorsiflexion, root mean square (RMS) of tibia muscle group and co-contraction ratio (CR) when standing were compared. Results The ROM of ankle passive and active dorsiflexion increased (Z>4.867, P0.05), while CR reduced (t=2.38, P<0.05). Conclusion Achilles tendon lengthening can improve the coordination of tibia muscle group to increase the ROM of ankle for chil-dren with talipes equinus after spastic cerebral palsy.