The impact of therapeutic camp on children with congenital hand differences

The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of hand camp by investigating camp participation and outcomes on self-esteem, physical function, activity participation, and peer relationships. Forty patients with a congenital hand difference seen in hand clinic between the ages of 10 and 13 were eligible to attend hand camp. Participation involved completion of questionnaires at 3-time points: before camp (Pre-Camp Questionnaires), immediately following camp (Immediate Follow-Up Questionnaires) and 6-months after camp (Final Follow-Up Questionnaires). The questionnaires administered included: Demographic Form, Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and Camp Expectation Questionnaire. Thirty-six patients were included (22 females, 14 males), average age of 11.17 years. Diagnoses included: central deficiency, transverse deficiency, radial longitudinal deficiency, ulnar longitudinal deficiency, and overgrowth conditions. PROMIS Upper Extremity Function significantly improved from pre-camp to immediate follow-up (46.24 to 48.95; p = 0.016), as well as at pre-camp and final follow-up (46.24 to 49.44; p = 0.008). PROMIS Peer Relation scores significantly improved from pre-camp to immediate follow-up (52.26 to 57.91; p = 0.002). RSES results indicated significant improvements in self-esteem between pre-camp and immediate follow-up (23.92 to 26.81; p < 0.001), and between pre-camp and final follow-up (23.92 to 25.72; p < 0.001). Peer relationships, upper extremity function, and self-esteem improved immediately following hand camp. Upper extremity function and self-esteem scores continued to improve significantly throughout the 6-month follow-up period. The study authors believe that research related to therapeutic camping experiences is integral when identifying best-practice interventions to increase quality of life outcomes for children with congenital hand differences.