Early Spontaneous Movements and Sensory Processing in Preterm Infants

Abstract

Abstract Importance: Preterm infants are at higher risk of motor development abnormalities and sensory processing difficulties. Few studies have examined both movement development and sensory processing in the early months of life, and the results are controversial. Objective: In this cross-sectional study, we investigated (1) differences in early spontaneous movements and sensory processing between preterm infants born at <32 wk gestation and those born at 32 to 36 wk gestation when they reached corrected (postterm) age 3 to 5 mo and (2) the relationship between early spontaneous movements and sensory processing. Participants: We included 50 preterm infants born at <32 wk gestation and 61 preterm infants born at 32 to 36 wk gestation. Outcomes and Measures: We assessed early spontaneous movements, including fidgety movements, using the General Movements Assessment (GMA), which provides the Motor Optimality Score (MOS), and sensory processing using the Infant Sensory Profile–2. Results: The preterm infants born at <32 wk gestation had lower MOS results (p = .035) and more sensory processing difficulties (p = .006) than those born at 32 to 36 wk gestation. We found no significant relationship between early spontaneous movements and sensory processing (p > .05). Conclusions and Relevance: Preterm infants born at <32 wk gestation are at increased risk for motor development abnormalities and sensory processing difficulties. What This Article Adds: Assessment of both motor development and sensory processing can play a crucial role in identifying infants who need early intervention.