To Örebro University

Earlier studies of development of hand function showed large variation between individuals in course of development.

Aim: To identify factors that predict or correlate with development of hand function in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Forty-five children with unilateral CP (inclusion age 18-64 months) were measured repeatedly with the Assisting Hand Assessment over on average 4,5 years. Data was collected on brain lesion (n=27), learning ability, sensibility in affected hand etc. A non-linear mixed models analysis was used.

Results: Type, extent and location of brain lesion could predict development of hand function. Decreased learning ability was a predictor of slower development of hand function. Poor sensibility in the affected hand correlated with slower development and a lower ability level compared to children with good sensibility.

Conclusion: Development of hand function can be predicted by brain lesion and is correlated to learning ability and sensibility in the affected hand.