Effectiveness of sports activity to improve motor coordination in special children with obesity

1 Introduction#

Occupational Therapy (OT) is a specialized field dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve independence and enhance their quality of life. OT practitioners address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges by utilizing purposeful activities. This client-centered approach prioritizes understanding individual needs and goals, employing occupation-based interventions tailored to each person’s unique circumstances.(1)

OT serves a diverse range of individuals across the lifespan. This includes children with developmental delays, adults recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions, and older adults seeking to maintain independence. Common practice areas encompass physical rehabilitation, mental health, pediatrics, and work rehabilitation.(1)

Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern with far-reaching implications. OTs play a crucial role in addressing this issue by focusing on the underlying factors that contribute to childhood obesity. This includes addressing sensory processing challenges, developing motor skills, and improving self-regulation.(1)

OTs promote healthy habits through a variety of strategies. These include establishing structured mealtime routines, incorporating healthy cooking activities into therapy sessions, and developing engaging physical activity plans tailored to the child’s interests and abilities. Furthermore, OTs can adapt home environments to support healthy choices and collaborate with schools and families to create a supportive ecosystem for healthy living.(1)

Childhood obesity is characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, which can lead to a range of health complications, including impaired motor coordination and an increased risk of chronic diseases.(2)

Several factors contribute to childhood obesity, including genetic predisposition, family environment and lifestyle choices, social determinants of health, cultural influences, and underlying health conditions.(2)

Obesity in children can have significant physical and emotional consequences. Physical health risks include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and increased risk of chronic diseases later in life. Social and emotional challenges may include bullying, social isolation, and depression.(3)

Diagnosis of childhood obesity involves assessing BMI and considering various factors, including family history, eating habits, activity levels, and other health conditions. Management typically focuses on lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep. Behavioral therapy and family-based interventions are crucial for long-term success.(3)

OTs contribute significantly to the treatment of childhood obesity by addressing the holistic needs of the child and their family. By focusing on building self-esteem, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating supportive environments in homes, schools, and communities, OTs empower children to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

2 Materials and Methods#

2.1 Study Design#

This research employs a quasi-experimental design, which facilitates comparisons among groups while recognizing the absence of random assignment to conditions.

2.2 Participants#

Sampling Technique: Convenience sampling was utilized.

Sample Size: 15 individuals were included in both the control and experimental groups.

Sample Setting: The research likely occurred in special education institutions or comparable environments where children with obesity can be reached.

Inclusion: Children aged 9 to 18 years diagnosed with obesity (BMI ≥ 95th percentile for their age and sex).

Exclusion: Children with significant medical conditions that impair motor function and those who cannot engage in play-based activities.

2.3 Instrument#

Comprehensive Coordination Scale (CCS): This tool evaluates various aspects of motor coordination, including balance, fine motor abilities, and gross motor skills.

Subtests: Finger-to-Nose Test (FTN), Arm-Trunk Coordination Test (ATC), Finger Opposition Test (FOT), Interlimb Coordination (ILC-2), Lower Extremity Motor Coordination Test (LEMOCOT), Four-limb Coordination (ILC-4).

Scoring: Each subtest receives an individual score, and the total CCS score is calculated as the sum of all subtest scores.

Reliability: Demonstrates excellent intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0. 97) and strong to exceptional inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0. 76-0. 98).

Validity: Shows strong content, criterion, construct, and face validity.

Body Mass Index (BMI): Computed to ascertain obesity status.

2.4 Procedure#

Recruitment and Informed Consent: Participants were recruited from suitable settings, and informed consent was secured from parents or legal guardians.

Baseline Assessment: BMI was assessed.

The CCS was assessed to all participants.

2.5 Interventions#

Experimental Group: Engaged in regular football and basketball sessions (specifics regarding frequency, duration, and intensity to be detailed).

Control Group: Received regular exercise sessions and standard treatment.

Post-Intervention Assessment: BMI and the CCS were re-administered to all participants.

3 Data Analysis and Results#

As the p-value of 0. 02 is below the threshold of 0. 05. This indicates a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores in the control group for the CCS. The findings suggest that the intervention provided to the control group resulted in notable improvements.

In the Experimental group, since the p value of 0. 001 is less than 0. 05. Hence, there is statistically significant difference in Experimental Group between pre-test and post test scores of CCS. This indicates that the experimental group demonstrated substantial improvement as a result of the intervention.

Since the p value of 0. 044 is smaller than 0. 05. Therefore, there is a statistically significant difference in post-test scores between the Experimental and Control Group of the CCS. This indicates that the intervention administered to the experimental group led to greater improvement in comparison to the control group.

4 Discussion#

This study investigated the effectiveness of a sports activity intervention within a special school setting for improving motor coordination in children with obesity. The analysis of pre-test/post-test results using the Comprehensive Coordination Scale (CCS) is discussed alongside relevant research from the literature review.

As the p-value of 0. 02 is below the threshold of 0. 05. This indicates a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores in the control group for the CCS. The findings suggest that the intervention provided to the control group resulted in notable improvements.

In the Experimental group, since the p value of 0. 001 is less than 0. 05. Hence, there is statistically significant difference in Experimental Group between pre-test and post test scores of CCS. This indicates that the experimental group demonstrated substantial improvement as a result of the intervention.

Since the p value of 0. 044 is smaller than 0. 05. Therefore, there is a statistically significant difference in post-test scores between the Experimental and Control Group of the CCS. This indicates that the intervention administered to the experimental group led to greater improvement in comparison to the control group.

5 Conclusion#

This study offers initial evidence that implementing a sports activity intervention in a special education setting can enhance motor coordination in children with obesity. The results indicate that the intervention was particularly effective for the experimental group. To better establish the intervention’s impact, future research should employ a more rigorous design, provide comprehensive details about the activities, and investigate the mechanisms driving these improvements. Additionally, exploring the broader effects of such programs on motor development and overall health outcomes in children with obesity is recommended.

6 Limitation and Recommendation#

This analysis is based entirely on statistical data and does not consider potential confounding factors.

The small sample size (n=15 per group) limits the ability to generalize the results to a broader population.

To determine the true impact of the sports activity intervention, future research could include a more robust control group that participates in an alternative physical activity program or receives no intervention.

Examining the specific sports activities included in the intervention, along with their adaptations for children with obesity in a special school environment, as well as factors such as frequency, duration, and intensity, could offer valuable guidance for designing effective programs.

Utilizing qualitative methods to explore participants’ experiences in both groups could provide meaningful insights into their enjoyment, engagement, and any challenges encountered with the sports activity program in the special school setting.

6.1 Conflicts Of Intrest#

No conflicts of intrest