Dual-task effects in children with neuromotor dysfunction: a systematic review.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Neuromotor dysfunctions can impair central coordination essential for dual-task performance.
• Dual-tasking involves performing multiple tasks simultaneously, integrating cognitive, perceptual, mechanical, and neurological processes.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for children with developmental coordination disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the existing literature on the effects of dual-tasking in children with neuromotor dysfunctions.
• To identify research gaps concerning dual-task performance in pediatric populations with neuromotor conditions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted in August 2018 by two independent reviewers.
• Included studies evaluated dual-task (motor-motor, cognitive-cognitive, cognitive-motor) effects on activities in individuals under 18 with neuromotor dysfunctions.
• Data extracted included dual-task paradigm, primary/secondary tasks, study methods, quality, and research gaps.

Main Results:

• A total of 13 full-text reports met the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
• The reviewed studies indicate that children with neuromotor dysfunctions exhibit increased susceptibility to dual-task costs compared to typically developing children.
• Limited high-quality research currently addresses this topic.

Conclusions:

• Children with neuromotor dysfunctions are more vulnerable to dual-task interference than their typically developing counterparts.
• There is a significant lack of research on dual-task effects in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and Down syndrome.
• Further investigation is warranted to fully understand dual-task impacts and inform clinical practice for pediatric neuromotor conditions.