# Handwriting speed in juvenile idiopathic arthritis using the detailed assessment of speed of handwriting

## TL;DR

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis often have handwriting difficulties, which may impact their school performance and need for accommodations.

## Contribution

This study introduces the use of the Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting (DASH) to evaluate functional limitations in children with JIA.

## Key findings

- 8 out of 12 children with JIA scored below the 50th percentile on the DASH test.
- DASH scores were negatively correlated with grip strength in children with JIA.
- Handwriting difficulties are common and may inform treatment and school accommodations.

## Abstract

Handwriting is a commonly reported functional limitation for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The aim of this study was to evaluate handwriting in children with JIA.

Twelve children (mean age 13.0 years, SD = 1.9; range 9.1 to 15.6 years) with JIA completed the Detailed Assessment of Speed of Handwriting (DASH). The presence of hand and wrist arthritis, grip strength, disability, pain, and quality of life (QOL) was also assessed. The mean DASH score was 34.5th percentile (SD = 22.5). Eight (75%) scored below the 50th centile. DASH scores were negatively associated with grip strength (r = -0.31).

Handwriting difficulties are common in children with JIA. Handwriting assessment may be helpful to direct treatments, and advocate for support and accommodations in school.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12969-024-01013-y.