Interlimb coupling in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy during reaching and grasping at speed

Abstract

This investigation examined reaching and grasping at speed in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Of particular interest was the effect of the movement of the less affected limb on the more affected one. Using 3D kinematic analysis and standard video recordings, 11 children with hemiplegia of varying degrees of severity were examined performing three reaching tasks at speed. The data were analysed and the extent and nature of the interlimb coupling occurring in each child were assessed using a number of different variables. The results are discussed in terms of spatial, temporal, and postural coupling. All children coupled to some degree but differed in the degree and type of coupling. Speed facilitated coupling which was stronger during the first part of the movement in all three tasks. The variables affecting coupling included the type of coupling, the nature of the task, the importance of context, and the stage in the movement.