ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: This proof of concept study examined the effectiveness of serial casting (SC) and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) in children with autism spectrum disorder (Ch-ASD) who toe walk (TW). Data collected determined effects of SC, followed by AFO intervention on ankle dorsiflexion (A-DF) passive range of motion and kinematics, and parent-reported functional outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW and have limited A-DF passive range of motion. SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS: The 5 participants increased passive range of motion with SC, except for 1 participant's left ankle. Two of 4 participants had near typical A-DF kinematic patterns following SC. The 5 participants improved A-DF during walking following 6 months of AFO use. CONCLUSIONS: Serial casting increased A-DF ROM and kinematics during walking. Consistent AFO use for walking training improved function and reduced toe walking. Serial casting followed by AFOs is a potential intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder who TW.
