Pilot Study to Measure Deficits in Proprioception in Children With Somatodyspraxia

Abstract

Abstract Importance: Given the importance of proprioception in motor coordination, the identification of sensory deficits contributing to motor challenges is crucial for appropriate intervention; however, objective proprioceptive tests are not currently available in pediatric clinical practice. Objective: To pilot test methods for assessing proprioception in children. Children with somatodyspraxia were predicted to have reduced proprioceptive awareness compared with age-matched control children. Design: Observational study. Setting: Individual clinic. Participants: Ten children identified as having somatodyspraxia and 10 typically developing children, ages 6–8 yr. Outcomes and Measures: Spatial awareness and force perception were assessed by having the children match arm positions and grip and pinch forces using electronic dynamometers. Results: All children were able to complete the proprioceptive assessments. Of those identified as having somatodyspraxia, 90% showed deficits in at least one area of proprioception. Children with somatodyspraxia performed more poorly on spatial awareness and force perception tests than typically developing children (p < .05). Conclusions and Relevance: Children with dyspraxia have difficulties with spatial awareness and force perception, confirming a somatosensory contribution to dyspraxia. What This Article Adds: This article presents a framework and methods to measure proprioception in children. These methods will allow occupational therapy practitioners to quantify the proprioceptive deficits common in children with dyspraxia.