1317 Arm Functions in Children with a Conservatively Treated Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy

Aim To determine whether conservative treatment of children with Obstetrics Plexus Brachialis Palsy (OBPP) results in restrictions of activities, participation and body functions and structure. Method 22 children, born with OBPP were examined at the age of 4 till 17 years. The activity level is assessed by the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (M-ABC 2) and the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, Second Edition (BOT-2). For the Body functions and structure, the muscle strength is measured by the Hand Held Dynamometer (HHD) and the joint mobility by goniometry and the Stenvers tests. In addition the scapula position is observed. The Participation is documented by Children’s Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment (CAPE). Results Concerning the body functions and structure we found differences between the arms in joint mobility and muscle strength. 45.5% of the children have a medio-rotation of the scapula. These differences lead to a different movement pattern of the affected arm. The effect of the OBPP on the level of activity and participation seems to be of no importance. The children with an OBPP do not stay behind with children of their age in physical and social activities. Conclusions Children with a conservative treaded OBPP have persisting restrictions specially on the level of body functions and structure. Despite these restrictions there is no relevant effect shown on the activity and participation level. Using the mobility tests we think there is a relation between position of the scapula and the joint mobility.