Effect of touch screen tablet use on fine motor functions in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Cerebral palsy is the most frequent condition affecting the central nervous system and causing large disability. OBJECTIVE: To determine the impact of touch screen tablet upon fine motor functions in children with hemiparesis. METHOD: This was a randomized controlled trial involving 60 children, ranging in age from 5 to 7 years old, randomized into two groups: intervention or control group (30 children per group). Both groups were given 12 consecutive weeks of designed fine motor tasks. Additionally, for thirty minutes, the intervention group was given a fine motor exercise program on a touch screen tablet. Upper limb function, finger dexterity and pinch strength were measured pre and post the recommended treatment program using the quality of upper extremity skill test (QUEST), Nine-Hole Peg Test and Jamar hydraulic pinch gauge, respectively. RESULTS: All outcome measures were equivalent between intervention groups at admission (P P > 0.05). Significant improvements were found in all assessed variables within the two groups. Meanwhile, the intervention group had significantly higher improvements (P P <0.05) in finger dexterity, pinch strength, and upper limb function when compared with the control groups. CONCLUSION: Including a touch screen smart tablet application with a specially designed fine motor program is an effective method that helps children with U-CP perform more effectively with their fine motor skills.