Investigation of the relation of body structure and functions of the upper extremity on activity and participation in children with Spina Bifida

This study was planned to investigate the relation of body structure and functions of the upper extremity on activity and participation in children with Spina Bifida (SB) within the scope of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Forty six children between the ages of 6 and 12, diagnosed with SB (n = 23, mean age = 9), with lesions at or below the lumbar level, and with typical development (n = 23, mean age = 8.5) were included in the study. At the beginning of the study, children's demographic information was obtained and their cognitive assessments were evaluated with the "SPARCLE Project Cognitive Assessment Scale". Among the body structures and functions, tactile sense with "Semmes Weinstein Monofilaments", two-point discrimination with "Discriminator", proprioception with "Universal Goniometer", kinesthesia with "Ability to copy different hand positions", muscle strength with "Hand Held Dynamometer", grip strength with "Dynamometer" and finger grip strength with "Pinchmeter" were assessed. Activity and participation were assessed with the Functional Independence Scale for Children (WeeFIM), Barthel Index, Child and Adolescent Participation Scale (CAPS), Box-Block Test, and Nine-Hole Peg Test. According to the study results, body structure and functions of dominant and non-dominant upper extremities and activity and participation levels of were lower in children with Spina Bifida than their typically developing peers (p<0.05). A significant relationship was detected between body structure and functions of the upper extremity and activity and participation in children with spina bifida (p<0.05). As a result, Spina Bifida management should be organized by a multidisciplinary team, individually, covering the individual's interests, appropriate for his development, and increasing his motivation, and a holistic approach should be taken. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation, which include body structure and functions related to the upper extremity, may contribute to increasing activity and participation levels in children with spina bifida.