Research Article  |   May 2014
Effects of Early Intervention on Mental or Neuromusculoskeletal and Movement-Related Functions in Children Born Low Birthweight or Preterm: A Meta-Analysis
Hae Yean Park; Kinsuk Maitra; Jacqueline Achon; Evelyn Loyola; María Rincón
Author Affiliations
  • Hae Yean Park, PhD, OT, is Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Occupational Therapy, Florida International University, Miami
  • Kinsuk Maitra, PhD, OTR/L, is Chair and Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Florida International University, 11200 SW Eighth Street, MMC, AHC3 443, Miami, FL 33199; kmaitra@fiu.edu
  • Jacqueline Achon, OTS, is Graduate Student, Department of Occupational Therapy, Florida International University, Miami
  • Evelyn Loyola, OTS, is Graduate Student, Department of Occupational Therapy, Florida International University, Miami
  • María Rincón, OTS, is Graduate Student, Department of Occupational Therapy, Florida International University, Miami
Article Information
Early Intervention / Evidence-Based Practice / Pediatric Evaluation and Intervention / Children and Youth
Research Article   |   May 2014
Effects of Early Intervention on Mental or Neuromusculoskeletal and Movement-Related Functions in Children Born Low Birthweight or Preterm: A Meta-Analysis
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May/June 2014, Vol. 68, 268-276. doi:10.5014/ajot.2014.010371
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May/June 2014, Vol. 68, 268-276. doi:10.5014/ajot.2014.010371
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. We conducted a meta-analysis to examine the association between early intervention and mental or neuromusculoskeletal and movement-related functions of children born low birthweight (LBW) or preterm.

METHOD. The meta-analysis included 16 studies that yielded 97 effects. Q and I2 values were used to determine heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using Egger’s regression intercept test and a funnel plot.

RESULTS. The association between early intervention and either mental or neuromusculoskeletal and movement-related functions yielded a significant but small effect size (d = .219, p < .0001). Heterogeneity was statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION. Participation in early intervention programs addressing mental or neuromusculoskeletal and movement-related functions in children born LBW or preterm results in significant improvements in these areas.