Gait: Clinical Observation and Orthotic Intervention

Overview

This is a two-part, evidence-based learning pathway in pediatric gait analysis and AFO prescription

Gait observation and orthotic intervention are essential yet complex components of pediatric rehabilitation. Each child presents with a unique gait pattern and functional profile, and decisions around ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) must be grounded in more than trial-and-error. This comprehensive, two-part course track empowers clinicians with the knowledge, tools, and clinical reasoning skills to assess gait accurately and prescribe orthoses with confidence and precision.

Presented by experts in pediatric rehabilitation, this track provides over 15 hours of engaging, on-demand content, complete with learning activities, quizzes, and downloadable resources that translate directly into clinical practice.

Part 1: Gait – Clinical Observation and Orthotic Intervention

Build a strong foundation in pediatric gait assessment
Accurate gait observation is a critical skill for informing clinical decisions and guiding orthotic intervention. In Part 1, you’ll learn to observe gait systematically, interpret clinically relevant patterns, and connect your findings to functional outcomes.

Key topics include:

• Anatomy and biomechanics of gait

• Typical vs. atypical pediatric gait patterns

• Clinical observation strategies and practical tips

• The role of gait analysis in AFO design and alignment

By the end of Part 1, you’ll be able to:

• Conduct systematic visual gait assessments

• Identify key gait deviations and interpret their clinical significance

• Link gait findings to orthotic planning

Part 2: Gait – Individualized AFO Prescription, Goal Setting, and Evaluation

Translate observation into evidence-informed orthotic decisions
Have you ever wondered how to choose the best AFO design for a child — or how to evaluate whether it's actually working? In Part 2, you’ll gain practical strategies to move away from a trial-and-error approach and toward confident, client-centered orthotic prescription and evaluation.

What you'll learn:

• How to match AFO design and alignment with individual gait patterns

• Considerations for integrating orthoses with footwear

• How to develop client-specific goals

• Strategies to evaluate the effectiveness of AFOs over time

• Case studies and clinical reasoning frameworks

This course addresses:

• The overwhelming number of AFO design choices and how to navigate them

• How to critically evaluate orthotic outcomes

• How to optimize the match between child, orthosis, and footwear

Note: Part 1 is a prerequisite to Part 2 and must be completed before accessing Part 2.

Course Format & Features

• 100% online, self-paced

• 15 hours of recorded content when purchased as a bundle

• Interactive learning activities and knowledge quizzes

• Practical case examples

• Lifetime access

• Certificates of completion for each part

Bundle & Save

You can purchase both Part 1 and Part 2 together at checkout by selecting the bundle option. This gives you access to the complete learning experience, including all lectures, activities, and assessments — ideal for professionals looking to upskill with a comprehensive, structured approach.

Who Should Take These Courses?

• Pediatric physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and orthotists

• Clinicians working with children who use or may benefit from AFOs

• New graduates or students in rehabilitation fields

• Experienced clinicians seeking to deepen their understanding of gait and orthotic assessment