A Case Report on the Functional Outcomes of a Dual-Axis Reciprocating Hip Orthosis in Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

Athulya KM; Dewendra Prasad; Ezhumalai K; Parthasarathi Swain

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.62575

A Case Report on the Functional Outcomes of a Dual-Axis Reciprocating Hip Orthosis in Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

Author(s)	Athulya KM, Dewendra Prasad, Ezhumalai K, Parthasarathi Swain
Country	India
Abstract	Background Scissoring gait is a common gait abnormality in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP), often resulting in reduced base of support, impaired balance, and increased fall risk. Existing orthotic interventions, such as SWASH and hip abduction orthoses, are limited in their functional effectiveness and daily usability. This study reports the clinical outcomes of a newly developed reciprocating hip orthosis designed to improve gait performance in a child with scissoring gait. Objective To evaluate the effects of a novel reciprocating hip orthosis on gait parameters, balance, functional mobility, and energy expenditure in a child with spastic diplegic CP. Method A 14-year-old male with spastic diplegic CP (GMFCS Level II) and scissoring gait underwent gait analysis using the 10-Meter Walk Test, balance assessment using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), functional mobility assessment using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and physiological evaluation using pulse oximetry and the Physiological Cost Index (PCI). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted with and without the orthosis. Results Post-intervention findings demonstrated increases in step length (37.5 cm to 46.5 cm) and stride length (81.5 cm to 95 cm), indicating improved gait mechanics. Although gait velocity and cadence showed slight reductions, these changes likely reflected improved control and adaptation to the orthosis. The PCI decreased substantially (86.9 to 22.6), suggesting enhanced energy efficiency. The BBS score improved from 38 to 41, indicating better postural stability, whereas TUG performance remained comparable with only a minimal increase in time. Conclusion The reciprocating hip orthosis improved gait symmetry, balance, and energy efficiency while reducing adductor influence in a child with spastic diplegic CP. These findings suggest potential clinical value for managing scissoring gait. However, larger studies are necessary to establish generalizability and long-term effectiveness.
Keywords	Cerebral palsy, scissoring gait, reciprocating hip orthosis, gait analysis, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go, Physiological Cost Index.
Field	Medical / Pharmacy
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-12-04
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.62575

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A Case Report on the Functional Outcomes of a Dual-Axis Reciprocating Hip Orthosis in Spastic Diplegic Cerebral Palsy

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