Ankle Dorsiflexion in Childhood Cancer Patients

NewsBot · Mar 8, 2015

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Ankle Dorsiflexion in Childhood Cancer Patients: A Review of the Literature.
Beulertz, Julia Dipl; Wurz, Amanda MSc; Culos-Reed, Nicole PhD; Chamorro Viña, Carolina PhD; Bloch, Wilhelm MD; Baumann, Freerk T. PhD
Cancer Nursing: February 27, 2015

Background: Improved treatment protocols necessary for survival in pediatric oncology are associated with the development of serious late effects. Of particular importance, especially with regard to physical activity (PA), may be ankle dorsiflexion (DF).

Objective: This review summarizes the results of observational and exercise intervention studies exploring ankle DF-range of motion (DF-ROM) and/or ankle DF strength in pediatric oncology.

Methods: PUBMED, Medline, Cochrane library, and SportDiscus were searched by 2 researchers using predefined search terms. The reference lists of included papers and Google scholar were then searched to that ensure all appropriate articles were included.

Results: Twelve studies were identified and were observational (n = 8), providing information regarding the status of DF-ROM and/or DF strength, or intervention studies (n = 4) using exercise as a strategy to improve DF function. All observational studies reported some degree of impairment in ankle DF. Two intervention studies found a positive effect of exercise on ankle DF-ROM.

Conclusion: The preliminary results suggest that pediatric cancer patients and survivors suffer from limitations in ankle DF with interventions varying in efficacy.

Implication for Practice: It is hoped that this review will enhance the recognition of the limited ankle DF function in pediatric oncology and initiate further research programs focused on targeting and evaluating ankle DF.
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NewsBot · Apr 21, 2015

Limitations in Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion, Gait, and Walking Efficiency in Childhood Cancer Survivors.
Beulertz, Julia Dipl; Bloch, Wilhelm Prof Dr; Prokop, Aram Dr Dr; Rustler, Vanessa MA; Fitzen, Christina BA; Herich, Lena Dr; Streckmann, Fiona Dr; Baumann, Freerk T. Dr
Cancer Nursing: April 15, 2015

Background: Improvements in survival rates in pediatric oncology have resulted in a growing need to identify adverse effects and improve rehabilitation in this population.

Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate active ankle dorsiflexion (DF) range of motion (ROM), gait, walking efficiency, and motor performance in a mixed childhood cancer survivor population in comparison to healthy peers.

Methods: Active ankle DF-ROM (goniometer), gait (Microgate Optogait 2D Gait Analysis), walking efficiency (6-minute walk test), and motor performance (German Motor Test 6-18) were assessed in a mixed childhood cancer survivor population after cessation of medical treatment (n = 13) in comparison to healthy children matched for age and gender (n = 13).

Results: Active ankle DF-ROM, gait (stance, swing, and preswing phase), and walking efficiency were significantly impaired in survivors compared with control subjects. No significant difference between groups was found in motor performance.

Conclusion: Despite sufficient total motor performance levels, specific limitations in physical functioning were identified in a mixed childhood cancer survivor sample. This highlights the importance of the present findings.

Implication for Practice: The results from this study highlight the potential significance of limited ankle DF function, inhibited gait, and reduced walking efficiency as adverse effects of various types of childhood cancer. It is hoped this enhanced recognition by pediatric cancer patients, parents, and exercise professionals will initiate specific supportive strategies and potentially prevent further limitations.
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Bug · Apr 22, 2015

Wow. This puts perspective on the role of therapists helping to maintain condition during chemo and potentially the posture that children (or any person) may hold while very unwell and non-ambulating.

I hope they do a follow up to see if the range is changed with general activity. Much of the gait changes could be related to wasting and lasting side effect of chemo. Hmmm.......

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NewsBot The Admin that posts the news.

Bug Well-Known Member

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