1/3. Treatment of severe equinus deformity associated with extensive scarring of the leg.Nine severe equinus deformities of the foot associated with extensive scarring of the leg and ankle were corrected using a hinged Ilizarov apparatus and free-tissue transfer. The average duration of followup was 38 months (range, 28-54 months). Free tissue transfer was done in all patients; a parascapular flap was used in seven patients, and a groin flap was used in two patients. The results were evaluated using two objective criteria and one subjective assessment: the degree of active dorsiflexion, the range of active movement of the ankle, and daily activities. For active dorsiflexion of the ankle and activities, the results were good in seven patients and fair in two patients. For range of active motion of the ankle, the results were good in six patients and fair in two patients. One patient with ankle arthrodesis was excluded. This study showed that severe equinus deformities associated with extensive scarring of the leg and ankle can be corrected effectively with heel cord lengthening, free-tissue transfer, and a hinged ilizarov technique.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = motion (Clic here for more details about this article) |
2/3. Percutaneous tendo Achillis lengthening to promote healing of diabetic plantar foot ulceration.The etiology of ulcerations related to increased plantar pressure in patients with diabetes mellitus is complex but frequently includes a component of gastrocnemius soleus equinus. One viable treatment option is percutaneous tendo Achillis lengthening as a means of increasing dorsiflexory range of motion and decreasing forefoot shear forces. This article presents three case reports illustrating the importance of reducing plantar pressure as a crucial component of treatment of diabetic forefoot ulcerations.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = motion (Clic here for more details about this article) |
3/3. Managing equinus in children with cerebral palsy: electrical stimulation to strengthen the triceps surae muscle.A new therapeutic proposal for the management of equinus in children with cerebral palsy is to strengthen the calf muscles instead of weakening them surgically. Prior research indicates that in children with cerebral palsy the triceps surae muscle is weak and needs strengthening. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was used as an adjunct to physical therapy. A portable NMES unit with a hand-held remote switch stimulated an active muscle gait cycle. Results are discussed for four children, who showed improved gait, balance, posture, active and passive ankle range of motion, and foot alignment. The toe walkers became plantigrade and the equinovalgus posture of the foot decreased. Spasticity did not increase.- - - - - - - - - - ranking = 1keywords = motion (Clic here for more details about this article) |