Effect of Vestibular Stimulation Exercises on Balance in Children With Down Syndrome

Abstract

Children with Down Syndrome (DS) are delayed in motor development and coordination which contributes to poor balance. PURPOSE: The aim of this pilot study was to investigate whether the use of vestibular stimulation exercises would influence balance in children with DS. METHODS: The study group consisted of 10 (6 male, 4 female) children (9.9 ± 2.846 years) with DS. Eight subtests of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOTMP) were used for pre and post-testing focusing on measures of bilateral coordination, balance, running speed and agility, upper limb coordination, and strength. The intervention, the vestibular stimulation exercises, consisted of 15 exercise stations performed 2 times per week for 6 weeks. A trained instructor accompanied each subject during participation to reduce risk of injury. RESULTS: Results indicated significant improvements in upper limb coordination (p=.013), speed and agility (p=.001). CONCLUSION: An early intervention that utilizes vestibular stimulation exercises may improve balance in children with Down Syndrome. Possible implications of improved balance include the ability to participate in an appropriate program for the long term which may in turn impact the ability to stand for prolonged periods of time at work or participate in organized sport.