The relation between visual functions, functional vision, and bimanual function in children with unilateral cerebral
Monica Crotti1, Els Ortibus2, Nofar Ben Itzhak1
1KU Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Locomotor and Neurological Disorders group, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven, Child and Youth Institute, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|July 17, 2024
Summary
Visual perception and functional vision are linked to bimanual function in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (uCP). Thorough visual assessments are crucial for understanding and addressing motor challenges in these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Accurate visual information is essential for guiding daily movements.
- Children with unilateral cerebral palsy (uCP) often experience visual impairments that can affect motor skills.
- The relationship between visual function and bimanual performance in uCP is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between various visual functions and bimanual function in children with uCP.
- To determine how visual perception, stereoacuity, visuomotor integration, and functional vision relate to bimanual dexterity, coordination, and hand use.
- To explore the predictive value of visual assessments on bimanual function in this population.
Main Methods:
- The study included 49 children with uCP aged 7-15 years.
- Visual functions assessed included stereoacuity, visual perception, visuomotor integration, and functional vision.
- Bimanual function was evaluated using measures of dexterity, coordination, and functional hand use.
- Correlations and elastic-net regularized regressions were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- Visual perception showed significant correlations with bimanual coordination and functional hand use.
- Stereoacuity, visual perception, and visuomotor integration were correlated with bimanual dexterity.
- Functional vision was correlated with functional hand use.
- Visual perception and functional vision were found to predict aspects of bimanual function, though with small effect sizes.
Conclusions:
- Visual functions and functional vision are related to bimanual function in children with uCP.
- The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive visual assessments to identify difficulties in bimanual tasks.
- Early identification of visual impairments can help tailor interventions to improve motor performance in children with uCP.
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