top of page

Topic:

Arthogryposis

Issue:

Wrist

Category:

Congenital

Title:

Functional Independence of Children With Arthrogryposis

Author:

Hyer, Lauren C. MD; Shull, Emily R. PhD; Wagner, Lisa V. DHS, OTR/L; Westberry, David E. MD

Journal:

Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics

Date:

March 2024

Reference:

44(3): p 197-201, DOI: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000002584

Level Of Evidence:

III

# of Patients:

44

Study Type:

Prospective study

Location:

Not specified

Summary:

This study evaluates the functional independence of children with arthrogryposis by using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) and observational assessments of activities of daily living (ADL).

Methods:

Patient Selection: Children with AMC, ages 3-12, participated in the study. Data Collection: Parents completed the PEDI-CAT, and a trained occupational therapist observed children completing a checklist of functional ADL tasks. Age Groups: Patients were grouped into developmental age categories: preschoolers (3-5 years), early school-age (6-9 years), and late school-age (10-12 years). Outcomes Evaluated: PEDI-CAT T-scores in daily activities and mobility. Observed ADL tasks and the level of assistance required. Comparison: PEDI-CAT scores of children with AMC were compared to typically developing children, and developmental age group differences were examined.

Exclusions:

Not specified

Results:

Demographics: The study enrolled 44 patients with a mean age of 7 years (±2.86). The age groups (preschool, early school-age, and late school-age) were nearly evenly distributed. PEDI-CAT Scores: The mean daily activities T-score for AMC patients was 25.80 (±11.98), and the mean mobility T-score was 17.39 (±9.77). Late school-age children had significantly lower scores in both domains compared to preschoolers (P<0.01). Observed ADL Tasks: Children required varying levels of assistance (27.3% to 61.4%) for completing daily activities. Older children (late school-age) demonstrated greater independence in ADLs compared to preschoolers (P=0.05).

Conclusions:

Children with AMC experience significant limitations in functional independence, particularly in age-appropriate mobility and daily activities. The study provides valuable reference data for clinicians and researchers to assess the effectiveness of nonoperative and surgical interventions aimed at improving functional independence in children with AMC.

Relevance:

Limitations:

Perspective:

bottom of page