introduction

Cerebral palsy is a disease that impedes neurological development and results in abnormal and awkward movements, especially when it comes to walking. Not all people with cerebral palsy are ambulant, but those who can walk exhibit noticeably atypical gaits. In general, these gaits are characterized by non-fluent and non-coordinated movements that feature muscle spasticity and excessive flexing of the knee and ankle joints. Depending on the body part or parts most involved in the irregular gait, the cerebral palsied patient will show different types of atypical gaits, such as toe-walking and 'crouch' gait. Gait assessment it a useful tool for identifying specific gait dysfunctions and guiding treatment, which usually includes the use of orthotic devices.