Does late preterm birth impact trunk control and early reaching behavior?

Author(s)

Sato, Natalia Tiemi da Silva ; Cunha, Andrea Baraldi ; Antonio, Giovanna Laura Neves ; Tudella, Eloisa

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INFANT BEHAVIOR & DEVELOPMENT; v. 63, p. 12-pg., 2021-04-02.

Abstract

The aims of the study were to 1) verify the level of trunk control longitudinally and reaching behavior while sitting in two positions in late preterm (LPT) and full-term (FT) infants, 2) determine whether the level of trunk control relates to reaching outcomes. Twenty LPT infants and 36 infants born FT were assessed via three in-lab visits: at 6, 7, and 8 months. At each visit, the Segmental Assessment of Trunk Control (SATCo) and reaching assessment were performed, where the infants were positioned sitting in the ring and at 90 degrees of flexion of hips, knees, and ankles. Accurate manual support to the trunk was provided in each visit. LPT infants presented a lower level of trunk control over time. LPT infants presented a higher percentage of unimanual reaches and successful grasping at 7 months' visit, and a higher number of reaches at 8 months' visit compared to FT infants. The sitting positions did not influence reaching performance. The level of trunk control relates to functional reaching strategies only in FT infants. This study might provide insights for clinicians for understanding the level of trunk control, the importance of reaching behaviors for exploration, and considering these behaviors as strategies for intervention. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/19577-7 - Influence of different seated postures and trunk control level in proximal and distal adjustments of reaching in low-risk preterm and full term infants
• Grantee: Giovanna Laura Neves Antonio Gaban
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation