Evidence-Based OT Interventions for Fine Motor Skills

The American Journal of Occupational Therapy released a study to show that common occupational therapy interventions effectively address fine motor problems and define the most common interventions used.

The study concluded that “occupational therapy practitioners use a variety of evidence-based interventions in the treatment of fine motor delay and that these interventions are effective in improving fine motor skills as evaluated by the BOT-2”^[1]

The multisensory and motor development approaches were the most common and effective interventions

Multisensory Approach

The multisensory approach involves teaching fine motor skills while involving multiple senses. Sensory learning helps to promote more participation, engagement, and a higher likelihood of remembering and utilizing the skill they are learning.

For example, while working on hand grasp, using a sensory bin involves tactile and visual input in the learning while making the activity fun.

Motor Development Approach

The motor development approach is learning a new motor skill through repetition until the skill is performed reflexively. This approach also involves understanding how the central nervous system controls motor function. Motor learning occurs in the brain as new neural connections are developed through repetition and practice. So, the more skill or task is performed, in theory, this aids with motor development and performance over time.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence for the interventions occupational therapists offer daily. This article aims to provide evidence-based support for our therapists so they can include these approaches in their treatments. Hence, they have studies that can help support the treatment they offer and help explain to parents why their actions are practical.

• In-Text Citation

  1. Piller and Torrez, p. 3

• Sources

  1. “How to Take a Multisensory Approach to Academics,” The OT Toolbox, 26 January 2022, https://www.theottoolbox.com/how-to-take-a-multisensory-approach-to-acedemics/.

  2. M, Courtney, “Handwriting: A Multisensory Approach,” Therapy at Play, accessed 12 October 2022, https://www.therapyatplay.com/handwriting-a-multisensory-approach/.

  3. “Motor Control and Learning,” Physiopedia, accessed 12 October 2022, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Motor_Control_and_Learning.

  4. Piller, Aimee, Elizabeth Torrez, “Effectiveness of Occupational Therapy Interventions for Fine Motor Skills in School-Age Children,” Am J Occup Ther. Vol. 72, 4_Supplement_1 (2018): 1-4. doi: https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.72S1-PO6037