Project R-12953

Task-specific motor fatigability during daily activities of the upper limbs in children with Cerebral Palsy (Research)

This proposal aims at investigating motor fatigability in upper limb strength during specific daily tasks in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The main reason for this research is that children with CP have difficulties in using their arms and hands due to muscle weakness and reduced capacity in sustaining strength, especially in forearm and hand muscles, such as lifting and carrying objects. Motor fatigability is defined as a reduction in muscle force-generating capacity in the neuromuscular system that occurs during prolonged or ongoing activity. Based on earlier research we know that children with CP have more motor fatigability during grip strength tests. However no research has been done on motor fatigability during relevant daily tasks (task-specific motor fatigability – TSUMF) The proposed research has three major aims. The first aim is to develop a reliable and valid protocol for TSUMF during daily activities (lifting a box or a cup). Also we will compare TSUMF in children with CP to typically developing children and study the impact of TSUMF on upper limb activities and participation. The second aim is to identify aspects of known interventions of upper limb activities in children with CP that may have an effect on TSUMF. The third aim is to develop a specific training for TSUMF and to test its feasibility. These insights in the phenomenon of TSUMF in children with CP will result in optimizing treatment interventions.

01 October 2022 - 30 September 2026