Systematic Review of Dance-based Interventions Targeting Upper Extremity Function in Occupational Therapy

Objective(s): This systematic review aims to evaluate the existing literature on dance-based interventions targeting upper extremity function. The objectives are to identify and characterize dance-based interventions, analyze the types of upper extremity outcomes measured, and determine the current gaps in research.

Data Sources: This protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024584556). Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, and EBSCOhost databases using the following search strategy: “(danc*) AND ((occupational*) OR ((rehab*) AND ((hand grip strength) OR (shoulder) OR (elbow) OR (hand) OR (upper extremity))))).” We searched articles between the dates of Jan 1, 1983 and Mar 15, 2023.

Study Selection: Studies were eligible if they included a dance-based intervention and measured upper extremity outcomes quantitatively. No restrictions on participant demographics, diagnoses, or settings were applied. Articles were screened and selected by two reviewers using the Covidence software, with full-text reviews resolving any conflicts. To evaluate the strength of evidence for each study, we applied the framework by Murad et al. (2016) to categorize levels of evidence.

Data Extraction: Key study characteristics, patient demographics, intervention details, and outcome measures were extracted by two independent researchers. Tables summarizing intervention characteristics and biases were compiled, with discrepancies resolved by a third investigator.

Data Synthesis: Using the Covidence platform, we screened 1143 abstracts, performed full review on 111 articles, and extracted data from 29 articles. Articles examined through data extraction included 9 RCTs, 19 cohort studies, and 1 case series. Functional improvements were reported with across various populations including those with breast cancer, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis and using validated functional evaluations such as the Functional Reach Test, Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), and Stroke Impact Scale. Dual-task training integrating motor and cognitive function was also reported to be improved via dance-based intervention in # studies.

Conclusions: Dance-based interventions display promising results for enhancing upper extremity function, particularly in improving motor control and integrating cognitive-motor tasks. However, significant gaps remain in understanding optimal intervention design and the long-term impact of these interventions in occupational therapy.

Author(s) Disclosures: Dr. Worthen-Chaudhari, stands to receive royalties from small business Games that Move You. No disclosures or conflicts to report for other authors.