In-hand manipulation assessment instruments for children: A scoping review

Abstract

Aim Accurate assessment of in-hand manipulation is imperative when treating children with fine motor delays. A clinically suitable instrument for in-hand manipulation is required to inform the paediatric developmental and rehabilitation context. Critical evaluation of the available instrument is required to make an informed decision and direct future research. The aim of the study was to assess the available literature with a view to writing a scoping review on in-hand manipulation assessment instruments for children. Methods The Arskey and O'Malley six-stage scoping review was applied. Fifteen databases were sourced for articles published between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2020. After identifying 33 eligible articles that met the inclusion criteria, the data obtained from the articles were charted. Results Eleven in-hand manipulation assessment instruments were identified and summarised according to (i) the constructs of in-hand manipulation included; (ii) clinical utility aspects of applicability and practicality and (iii) psychometric properties. Conclusion At the time of the review, none of the instruments had comprehensively completed the instrument development process to the point of standardisation with evaluated psychometric properties. Further research is recommended for the development of a gold standard in-hand manipulation assessment instrument.