What are the reasons for poor motor abilities in premature infants?

Generally, poor motor skills in premature infants may be caused by factors such as underdeveloped nervous system, incomplete muscle development, anemia in preterm infants, white matter injury in the brain, or cerebral palsy. If abnormal symptoms occur, timely medical consultation and treatment at a reputable hospital are recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Underdeveloped Nervous System

The cerebral cortex of preterm infants is not fully developed, resulting in weak control over limb movements and poor motor coordination. Passive movement training, such as gentle joint exercises of the limbs, should be conducted under professional guidance. Regular neurological developmental assessments are necessary to adjust the training plan accordingly, while ensuring sufficient nutrition to promote nervous system development.

2. Incomplete Muscle Development

Preterm infants have insufficient time for muscle development in the womb, leading to weaker muscle strength and endurance, which affects motor abilities. Stimulation through massage and infant passive exercises can promote muscle development, with each session lasting 10-15 minutes, performed 2-3 times daily. Adequate protein intake, such as using formula specifically designed for preterm infants, should be ensured during feeding to provide necessary nutrients for muscle growth.

3. Anemia in Preterm Infants

Preterm infants may have insufficient red blood cell production or excessive destruction, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity and inadequate oxygen supply to muscles, thus affecting motor performance. Patients may receive treatment with medications such as ferrous fumarate granules, iron dextran oral solution, or ferrous succinate tablets under medical guidance. Additionally, vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements may be recommended by physicians to promote red blood cell production.

4. White Matter Injury in Preterm Infants

Instability of cerebral blood flow during prematurity can cause ischemia and hypoxia-related damage to the brain's white matter, impairing the transmission of motor commands and resulting in poor motor ability. Treatment may involve medications such as sodium citicoline injection, ganglioside sodium injection, or cerebral protein hydrolysate injection, under medical supervision.

5. Cerebral Palsy in Preterm Infants

Abnormal brain development or injury leads to abnormal muscle tone and motor dysfunction in limbs. Patients may be treated with medications such as baclofen tablets, eperisone hydrochloride tablets, or diazepam tablets under medical guidance to alleviate muscle tone issues.

In daily life, parents should patiently accompany preterm infants during rehabilitation training, avoiding excessive training. Regular hospital follow-ups are essential to promptly adjust intervention plans and promote improvement in motor abilities.