Evaluating the Grip Strength and Pen Pressure in Handwriting Performance among Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder in India

Abstract

Handwriting difficulties were predominant among children with developmental coordination disorder. Poor muscle strength and pressure exerted by pen were factors assessed by the clinicians and they play a role in determining the handwriting efficiency. There is no empirical evidence on the handwriting efficiency and the factors associated with it for Indian children with developmental coordination disorder. The study aims in evaluating the grip strength and pen pressure in handwriting performance among children with developmental coordination disorder. Ten children of age group 5-10 years with developmental coordination disorder were compared with typically developing children. Hand dynamometers were used in evaluating the palmar and tripod grip strength. Handwriting task was compared between the typically developing children and Developmental coordination disorder children and the results of the study assured that there was no significant difference documented in the hand dynamometer measures of grip strength. DCD children exhibit less pressure on writing surface as compared to typically developing peer group children. There was no correlation between grip strength and pen pressure over handwriting efficiency in children with developmental coordination disorder. Clinicians should create awareness on the importance of enhancing handwriting skill among children with developmental coordination disorder.