Motorized Movement Therapy & Pulmonary Functions in Down Syndrome

Improved Pulmonary Functions and Exercise Capacity in Children With Down Syndrome Following Motorized Movement Therapy: Comparison With Chest Physical Therapy

To investigate the effects of the addition of motorized movement therapy versus conventional chest physiotherapy alone on pulmonary functions, exercise capacity, and endurance in children with Down Syndrome

To investigate the effects of the addition of motorized movement therapy versus conventional chest physiotherapy alone on pulmonary functions, exercise capacity, and endurance in children with Down Syndrome (DS). Methods: This randomized controlled study included 40 children (24 boys & 16 girls) with DS. Their ages ranged from 9 to 13 years. The control group received conventional chest physical therapy program, three sessions per week for 12 weeks. The study group received an aerobic exercise regimen using a motorized movement therapy device 3 times /week in addition to the same traditional program used with the control group. Pulmonary function tests, and six-minutes walking test were measured at baseline, after 18 sessions and after 36 sessions of treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ability to walk independently
• No involvement in any physical rehabilitation program or sports activity
• Ability to understand and follow orders

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children suffering from obesity
• Severe visual and/or auditory impairment
• Congenital heart disease
• Children with musculoskeletal disorders