Clinical Decision-Making in Paediatric Orthotic Prescription for Cerebral Palsy

Join us for this 40-minute presentation and 10-minute Q&A session on the topic of Clinical Decision-Making in Paediatric Orthotic Prescription for Cerebral Palsy.

Orthotic prescription for children with cerebral palsy is complex, nuanced, and often influenced by factors beyond clinical guidelines alone. This webinar will explore contemporary Australian practice in prescribing AFOs and supramalleolar orthoses (SMOs), drawing on Asumi Dailey’s recent research that examined how paediatric orthotists make real-world clinical decisions. Attendees will gain insight into the reasoning processes that underpin orthotic selection and how clinicians balance biomechanics, functional goals, family priorities, and service constraints.

Through research-informed discussion and practical examples, this webinar will highlight the variability in current practice and the gaps between evidence and day-to-day clinical decision-making. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on their own prescribing approaches and consider strategies to support more transparent, consistent, and child-centered orthotic decision-making within multidisciplinary paediatric care.

What we will cover:

1. Identify the main factors that influence the choice of AFOs and SMOs for children with cerebral palsy.
2. Understand how evidence, clinical experience, and practical considerations affect orthotic prescribing decisions.
3. Apply strategies to support clearer and more consistent orthotic decision-making in practice.