Hand Sensibility in Healthy Young Children

Publication date: Available online 16 May 2018
Source:Pediatric Neurology
Author(s): Sonja M. Buitenhuis, Willem Pondaag, Ron Wolterbeek, Martijn J.A. Malessy
Aim: The aims of the study were (1) to assess hand sensibility in healthy young children using instruments validated for adults; (2) to identify which test tools are suitable; and (3) to compare the dominant and non-dominant sides.Methods: Twenty-five healthy children aged 7-11 years (mean 9.5 years) were investigated. Sensibility was assessed with the Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament test (SW), two-point discrimination (2PD), localization test (LOC) and stereognosis object recognition (SOR). Sensory stimuli were administered to fingertips.Results: The thinnest SW filament (D; 2.83mm) was felt at 94% of examined points. A 2PD at the smallest distance of 2 mm was found in the thumb in 84% of children and in the index finger in 94%. Only 60% felt this distance in the fifth digit. The difference between little finger and index finger was statistically significant (p= 0.001). Near-maximum value on the LOC was scored in both hands. All children had a 100% score for both hands in the SOR.Interpretation: Most children can detect touch in the digits at low pressure. The majority are able to discern two points 2 mm apart in the first and second digits, but significantly less so in the fifth digit. Children are well able to localize on which side of a fingertip pressure is applied. Objects are recognized very well, and occasionally too quickly to record. There appear to be no differences between the dominant and non-dominant hands in either test. Adjustment of sensory test protocols routinely used in adults is necessary to optimize hand sensation testing in children, in view of the detection limits.



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