Gait analysis and Bobath physiotherapy in adults with Down syndrome

Abstract

Introduction

Down syndrome (DS) is a chromosomal disorder with variable phenotypic expression, although different patients share some common features. Among them, hypotonia, ligament laxity and delayed psychomotor development stand out. These traits can improve with early therapy, but remain as gait instability and pathologic compensatory strategies in adult patients.

Pathological gait in DS patients has been studied previously, but the treatment of motor problems has not been approached from a neurological rehabilitation viewpoint, focused on quality of function.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the gait alterations in a sample of patients with DS and to assess changes after Bobath physiotherapy.

Material and methods

An experimental prospective uncontrolled study was performed. Ten adults with DS (mean age: 28 years) were assessed at baseline and after 10 sessions of Bobath physiotherapy treatment. Quantitative data (such as step length or walking speed) and qualitative data (such as characteristics of arm movements and instability) were recorded by an evaluator blinded to the treatment received.

Results

Clear deviations with respect to normal adult gait were found, and a trend towards improvement after physiotherapy treatment. The results were significant in the correction of pitch angle and its symmetry.

The study has revealed the potential benefits of physiotherapy in adults with DS and the need to complete more studies in this sense.