Sensory and Motor Function in Children with Arthrogryposis and Myelomeningocele
Author Information
Author(s): Bartonek Åsa, Eriksson Marie
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
Hypothesis
Children with arthrogryposis and myelomeningocele would perceive somatosensory stimuli less than typically developing children.
Conclusion
Children with myelomeningocele perceived somatosensory stimuli less clearly than typically developing children, while children with arthrogryposis showed some minor differences but performed better than those with myelomeningocele.
Supporting Evidence
- Children with myelomeningocele perceived light touch sensation less clearly than typically developing children at all tested sites.
- The AMC group performed better than the MMC group in two-point discrimination and vibration sensation.
- Pain was reported by 21% of subjects in the AMC group and 22% in the MMC group.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well children with certain disabilities can feel things in their feet and legs. It found that kids with myelomeningocele had a harder time feeling things compared to kids without disabilities.
Methodology
The study tested 42 children using a somatosensory test battery to assess their ability to perceive stimuli in their feet and legs.
Limitations
The small sample size may not meet statistical requirements, and not all participants reached the threshold for perceiving stimuli.
Participant Demographics
42 children aged 7-18 years, including 19 with arthrogryposis, 23 with myelomeningocele, and 22 typically developing children.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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