Proximal shoulder muscle activity was studied in normal children and children with sensory integrative dysfunction (n = 16), using electromyography. The data revealed significant differences between the groups in the amount of muscle activity produced during pencil tasks demanding movement and control of the distal part of the extremity, and during static weight bearing and developmental postures. No significant correlations were found between the degree of skill in distal control tasks and the amount of activity of proximal stabilizer muscles. This finding presents a challenge to the therapeutic premise that distal control is dependent on proximal stability. Implications for treatment of children with sensory integrative dysfunction, and for further research, are discussed.
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