Grip force control is dependent on task constraints in children with and without developmental coordination disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) often exhibit excessive grip force (GF).
• GF control in DCD may be influenced by task constraints and tactile sensitivity.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate grip force (GF) control in children with DCD under varying task demands.
• To examine the relationship between GF control and tactile sensitivity in children with DCD.
• To compare GF control strategies between children with DCD and typically developing controls.

Main Methods:

• Grip force (GF) was measured using a load cell-equipped cylindrical cup.
• Participants (21 with DCD, 17 controls) held and transported cups with varying properties.
• Tactile sensitivity was assessed via static and dynamic two-point discrimination tests.

Main Results:

• Children with DCD demonstrated a slower rate of grip force (GF) generation.
• Lower dynamic two-point discrimination sensitivity in DCD may correlate with slower GF generation.
• Peak GF was lower in children with DCD under time constraints but remained task-dependent for all participants.
• Both groups modulated GF based on liquid content and cup properties, indicating adaptive control.

Conclusions:

• Grip force (GF) control in children with and without DCD is significantly influenced by task demands.
• Tactile sensory processing, particularly dynamic discrimination, may play a role in GF control deficits in DCD.
• Findings highlight the importance of considering task context and sensory feedback in motor assessments for DCD.