A core stabilization program improves motor performance and health-related quality of life in adolescents with motor difficulties

Abstract

Background: Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by poor motor competence that affects negatively adolescents’ activities of daily living and also pose an increased risk to their health and psychosocial development. Core stability improves posture, balance and proprioception, skills in which adolescents with DCD are deficient. A weak core is a fundamental problem in the inefficient production of motion, which can lead to incorrect motor patterns. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a core-stability functional exercise program on motor competence, health-related physical fitness, weekly physical activity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescents with motor difficulties. Methods: 24 adolescents (12.75±.74y) participated in a 12 weeks (3 sessions/week) core-stability functional exercise program. Two groups were formed: experimental (DCDexp N=8) and control group (DCDcontrol N=16). Motor performance, balance, abdominal muscles strength/endurance, flexibility of lower back and hamstrings muscles, BMI, weekly physical activity and HRQoL were assessed pre and post intervention. Results: There were significant increases on motor performance, on balance, on abdominal muscles strength/endurance and on lower back and hamstrings muscles flexibility. Also, HRQoL and functional status were increased. There was no impact on physical activity and BMI. Conclusion: A core-stability functional exercise program seems to improve motor performance, health-related physical fitness, and HRQoL in adolescents with motor difficulties. This study provides evidence to the findings of the process-oriented approaches combined with effects in various parameters that guarantee success for these adolescents with poor motor competence.