Research helps clumsy children
Volunteers wanted: children who are turning (or have just turned) 6, 7 or 8 years old. Normal and ?clumsy' children welcome.
The University of Queensland's Motor Co-ordination Dysfunction (MCD) Clinic is calling for young volunteers to take part in an Australian-first study which it hopes will lead to better treatment for clumsiness in children.
The study is testing co-ordination and balance using a series of tests and exercises. Its short-term aim is to identify the physical differences between normal children and those suffering poor motor skills.
"Up to 6 percent of the population is affected, and for these people, being clumsy may have a major impact - not only on their ability to do many simple things, but on their self-esteem," according to Lecturer in the University of Queensland Department of Physiotherapy, Pauline Watter.
"Some clumsy children can't do up their shoelaces or buttons, or walk up stairs without falling. Some can't jump, balance or catch a ball - and if you can't do these things, no-one wants you to play. This means you get less practice catching and the problem does not improve."
Mrs Watter said that often, children did not grow out of clumsiness as many people believed. Poor eye co-ordination, poor balance reactions or decreased sensations in joints can all contribute to clumsiness. These are physical problems that can affect movement performance."
The University of Queensland's MCD Clinic is unique in Australia and treats children from all States and neighbouring countries. Mrs Watter said the study hoped to test 150 normal children and 120 clumsy children, making it the first of its type in Australia involving such a large group."While the Clinic already treats clumsiness with exercises tailored for the individual child, we hope that this comprehensive study will help us to improve techniques and treatment," she said.
Volunteers are required to come to the University to participate in some 16 tests, including balancing exercises performed on a purpose-built force platform which measures how far a child sways under different conditions.Mrs Watter said the study was particularly keen to hear from parents of normal children.
People wishing to involve their children in this study, can call 3365 2019.
The University of Queensland was named Australian University of the Year in 1998 and is a recognised leader in medical and health-related research and teaching.
