Fine Motor Performance in School-aged Children

Core Stability and Fine Motor Performance in Typically Developing School-Aged Children

The goal of this observational cross-sectional study is to investigate the relationship between core stability, hand grip strength, and handwriting performance in typically developing school-aged children aged 8 to 12 years. The study aims to determine whether core stability is associated with upper extremity function and handwriting abilities during middle childhood.

The main questions the study aims to answer are:

• Is there a relationship between core stability and hand grip strength in typically developing school-aged children?
• Is there a relationship between core stability and handwriting performance in typically developing school-aged children?

Participants will undergo the following assessments:

• Assessment of core stability using the McGill core endurance tests.
• Measurement of hand grip strength using a hydraulic hand dynamometer.

Inclusion Criteria:

Children will be included in the study according to the following criteria:

• Typically developing children aged 8-12 years.
• Both boys and girls.
• Enrolled in primary school.
• Able to understand and follow simple verbal instructions.
• Able to read and write in English according to their educational level.
• Regular school attendance.
• Children with a typical level of physical activity for their age and not participating in competitive athletic training programs.
• Written informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of neurological, developmental, or musculoskeletal disorders affecting posture, upper limb function, or handwriting.
• Upper limb pain, deformity, fracture, or injury within the previous six months.
• Uncorrected visual or hearing impairment.
• Diagnosed developmental coordination disorder (DCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), intellectual disability, or specific learning disorder affecting handwriting.
• Previous surgery involving the upper limb or spine