SC Portland Outcomes Report 2023

EXAMINING TREATMENT OUTCOMES AND GENETIC LINKS FOR CHILDREN WITH IDIOPATHIC TOE WALKING Idiopathic toe walking (ITW) is a common pediatric condition with a prevalence of 5% -24% in children. While toe walking can be part of normal walking development; persistent toe walking in children over 3 years of age often results in parental concern. While some kids grow out of toe walking, others continue walking on their toes, causing foot pain and the inability to keep up with their friends. Two commonly recommended treatments are serial casting or surgery, but to date there is minimal information about which option has better outcomes. Shriners Children’s Portland under the direction of Dr Jeremy Bauer, is leading a multicenter study with seven other Shriners Children’s to determine screening tools for accurate diagnosis, examine the outcomes from either casting or surgery and determine whether there is a genetic link for some children with idiopathic toe walking. “Toe walking affects so many children, yet we have little evidence to guide our clinical treatment,” said Jeremy Bauer, M.D. “I am hopeful that this study will provide clarity and direction for the treatment of children with idiopathic toe walking.” Computerized assessment of walking with a multi-segment foot model will provide insight into exactly what happens to the foot with either casting or surgery. Once completed, this will be the largest study examining treatment outcomes and the possible genetic link for patients with idiopathic toe walking.

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