Assessment to measure unilateral upper limb function in children with neurological impairment

Authors: Randall M., Johnson L., Reddihough, D.  Age-Range: 5.0 - 15.0 years

The Melbourne Assessment is an evaluation tool used to objectively measure unilateral upper limb function in children. The Melbourne Assessment is criterion referenced test for children between 5-15 years old with neurological impairment. The Melbourne Assessment was developed to measure change over time in children where change can be slow or subtle. The assessment scores the quality of unilateral upper limb motor function. The Melbourne Assessment was developed between 1990-1993, and revised in 1994 to its current form. The test is currently undergoing further development (version 2), which will make it suitable for use with children aged 2-4 years. Initial research findings indicate good clinical utility, concurrent validity and discriminative validity for this age group. Melbourne summary prepared by Occupational Therapy Program, University of Western Sydney Funded by the Motor Accidents Authority of NSW, May 2006 The Melbourne Assessment includes 16 test items where the child is required to perform a specific [dominant] upper limb task with verbal instruction, and in some instances following demonstration by the therapist. The dominant and non-dominant hand can be assessed. The items include reach (various planes, palm to bottom and forehead to neck), grasp, drawing, release (crayon and pellet), manipulation, pointing, pronation/supination, hand to hand transfer, hand to mouth and down. The equipment is positioned so that the child is provided with visual cues (for example a ‘smiley face’ switch is positioned by the therapist in front for forwards reach, and to the side for reach sideways to elevated position).

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