Postural control in children, adolescents and adults with Down syndrome

Introduction

Postural control is considered the basis for the development of motor skills in people with DS. Therefore, the analysis of postural control could guide the rehabilitation of these patients.

Objective

To analyse the postural control in children, adolescents and adults with Down syndrome (DS).

Material and methods

A case–control study. The sample was composed of twenty-two children aged 6–11 years old (10 DS, 12 TD), twenty-three adolescents between 12 and 18 years old (11 DS, 12 TD), and twenty-four young adults 19 and 25 years old (12 DS, 12 TD). Postural control was measured on a force platform in condition of open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE) where the centre of pressure (COP) variables were calculated. People with DS and typically developing (TD) were compared.

Results

No significant differences were observed in children. In adolescents and adults the COP variables were significantly higher in the groups with DS in OE and CE (P < 0.05). In people with DS there were no significant differences between children, adolescents and adults in any of the COP variables. In people with TD significant differences when comparing children, adolescents and adults (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Individuals with DS have a deficit of postural control and low development of this skill as the individual matures in age.