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Published on: April 21, 2011
Movement as a Gateway to Participation for Individuals With Neuromotor Conditions: A Scoping Review
Megan B Flores1, Melissa Moran Tovin, Simone V Gill
1Department of Physical Therapy (Dr Flores), Baylor University, Waco, Texas; Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (Dr Tovin), Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences (Drs Gill and Iverson), Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts.
This review found limited research on how movement opportunities impact participation during developmental transitions for individuals with neuromotor conditions. More studies are needed to understand these crucial life changes.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Science
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Movement Science
Background:
- Individuals with neuromotor conditions face critical developmental transitions.
- Participation and movement are key aspects of quality of life during these transitions.
- Existing literature lacks a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between movement and participation during these periods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of the literature on movement and participation at developmental transition points for individuals with neuromotor conditions.
- To analyze existing research regarding movement opportunities and participation outcomes during key life transitions.
- To identify gaps in the literature concerning the impact of movement on participation in this population.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review methodology based on Arksey and O'Malley's framework was employed.
- Thirty-seven articles were systematically included and analyzed.
- Data extracted included population characteristics, transition points, movement opportunities, participation types, and outcome measures.
Main Results:
- Most reviewed studies addressed developmental transition points.
- Physical activity and exercise were the most frequently studied movement opportunities.
- While many studies used formal participation outcome measures, others relied on observation or interviews.
Conclusions:
- A significant gap exists in the literature regarding the effect of movement opportunities on participation during developmental transitions.
- Current research does not adequately address how to optimize movement to enhance participation for individuals with neuromotor conditions at critical life stages.
- Further investigation is warranted to explore the relationship between movement and participation across the lifespan for this population.
