Physiological Parameters of Motor Adaptation in Children with Disability

Abstract

We investigated the physiological characteristics of motor adaptation in children with disabilities associated with impaired functioning of the musculoskeletal system and decreased range of motion of joints in the upper and lower extremities. The study included 90 children aged 8 to 12 years who were divided into three groups: children capable of independent locomotion; children capable of independent locomotion with support; children without disabilities. We used the methods of electromyography, rheovasography, and motion tracking. It was established that children with disabilities have a special motor stereotype associated with joint mobility limitations and based on functional compensatory mechanisms. In addition, factors that directly affect the process of functional adaptation were identified: first, the restructuring of motor programs, i.e., the formation of a special motor stereotype to compensate for the presence of biomechanical changes when walking; second, the functional reserve of hemodynamics in the proximal parts of the lower extremities; and third, the simultaneous activity of flexor and extensor muscles in the event of hypersynchronization of motor units. Thus, it has been established that limited joint mobility in the upper and lower extremities can activate the compensatory mechanisms aimed at functional compensation of lost functions by creating a special motor stereotype for the development of motor adaptation of children with disabilities. Thus, we suggest that the adaptation approach is a real opportunity to provide complete adaptation of children with disabilities, their inclusion in all spheres of public life and overcoming both social and physical barriers.