The Relationship Between Somatosensory Processing and Handwriting Proficiency

Edgehill Mansion, Garden Room, Dominican University of California

Occupational therapists often work to remediate handwriting and fine motor difficulties in school age children. Handwriting and fine motor deficits comprise the majority of school-based occupational therapy referrals. It is hypothesized that somatosensory processing exerts a significant influence on handwriting skill development. The multisensory approach has been used to address components of somatosensation, including kinesthesia, proprioception, tactile discrimination, and haptic perception as they relate to handwriting. The multisensory approach is one of the most commonly used handwriting interventions by occupational therapists. Despite the frequency with which the multisensory approach is used, there is limited evidence of its efficacy. This study was designed to establish a link between somatosensory processing and handwriting proficiency. The results and implications of the study can assist occupational therapists and other professionals to better teach handwriting and effectively remediate handwriting challenges.