Does accelerometry reflect hand function in infants at risk of unilateral cerebral palsy? A secondary analysis of BB-Bim results

Abstract

BackgroundInfants at high-risk of unilateral Cerebral Palsy (UCP) may have asymmetry in upper extremity movement and function, which should be identified as soon as possible for management. AimsTo explore the feasibility of using two AX3 Axivity monitors in wrist-worn bracelets to quantify movements, and to identify whether accelerometry parameters are consistent with hand function. Methods and procedures6 infants at high risk of UCP (aged 3 to −12 months) were included in a Single-Case Experimental Design to explore the impact of an 8-week bimanual stimulation home program. OutcomesEach week of the baseline (randomized duration 4–7 weeks) and 8-week program, the Hand Assessment for Infants (HAI) was performed and accelerometry parameters were collected during HAI and also during spontaneous activity, several times a week. ResultsActimetry was analyzed during HAI and 238 spontaneous activity sessions (mean 42 ± 21 min). Actimetry ratios distribution and evolution show a high variability, especially for spontaneous activity. No strong correlation was found between HAI scores and accelerometry parameters, either collected during HAI, or during spontaneous activity times. Conclusion and implicationsDespite its feasibility, using accelerometry bracelets looks unreliable for detecting and monitoring hand function in infants under one year.