Upper extremity strength and function in children with spinal muscular atrophy type II.

Abstract

Upper extremity strength and function in a sample of ten children with spinal atrophy type II was determined using manual muscle testing, a sphygmomanometer, and a pinchometer. Functional abilities were recorded on self-report forms. Overall strength in this sample was determined to be 35% to 40% of normal. Repeated-measures analysis of covariance revealed no change with time in proximal or distal strength. Six children were capable of at least 1/2 pound of force in pinch or gross grasp vs four children with zero force in one of these measures. Ability to produce a measurable force in pinch or gross grasp was found to be associated with independence in mobility, hand function, and ADL by Fisher exact test (p = .02). These data document the weak, but stable, muscle force present in these children and relate the strength of function.