97 Handwriting Speed in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Using the Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting

Abstract Background Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common cause of in children. Common symptoms include pain, joint stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and decreased physical function. Over 50% children have hand or wrist involvement handwriting commonly reported functional limitation daily activities. To date there has been limited study specific limitations with JIA. Objectives better understand JIA, this pilot aimed to: (a) describe speed measured by Detailed Assessment Speed Handwriting (DASH), a standardized assessment speed; (b) compare DASH scores age- sex-matched normative data; (c) examine association between active arthritis; (d) explore associations grip strength, quality life, function, pain. Design/Methods Participants diagnosed JIA actively followed paediatric rheumatology clinic at large tertiary care centre underwent physician count, occupational therapist (OT) including administration DASH, strength measurement physiotherapist. Participant-reported outcomes included questionnaires on function (Childhood Health Questionnaire [CHAQ]), life (QOL). Results A total 12 participants aged 9-15 years (M = 12.7y) completed study. The mean score was 35th percentile (SD 23) for all participants, 58th 14) hand/wrist arthritis, 25th 19) history 24th 25) no arthritis. Grip low overall 18th percentile, SD 28), lower 4th 5) 5th 7). were negatively associated (r -.31), positively QOL .41) pain .43). There relationship CHAQ. Conclusion difficulties are may not relate to disease activity, be used as screen identify who benefit from full OT assessment. In absence access OT, general guidance can provided schools support child classroom.