Assessment of Lower-Extremity Alignment in the Transverse Plane: Implications for Management of Children with Neuromotor Dysfunction

Abstract

The authors present nine clinical assessment procedures designed to detect factors contributing to transverse-plane structural and joint alignment abnormality in children with neuromotor dysfunction. Where applicable, each assessment is accompanied by a discussion of the normal features of pediatric lower-extremity torsional and rotational alignment; limitations of the assessment procedures as regards reliability, specificity, and age-related normative findings; and clinical management suggestions. The authors urge clinical evaluators to expand the existing knowledge base.