Exercise Training to Improve Balance Ability for Individuals with Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Down syndrome (DS) is known to exhibit specific balance problems due to deficits in the postural control system, hypotonia, etc. Exercise training is one approach to reducing balance impairments in this population. The purpose of this study is a systematic review and metaanalysis of the effects of exercise training designed to improve balance ability in people with DS.

A search for relevant articles was carried out on seven electronic databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Scopus, PEDro, and Web of Science. This systematic review was carried out between 2010 and 2022. Utilizing a set of predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, the studies were selected. The study's methodology was assessed using the PEDro scale. Data analyses were performed using the CMA v3 random effects model.

In total, 514 articles were screened, and data from 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving Down syndrome were used in this meta-analysis. The results showed that exercise training was effective in improving balance (ES: 1.20, 95% CIs: 0.95 to 1.53, p = 0.00). Despite the small number of studies, the findings suggest that exercise training might help children and young people with Down syndrome become more balanced. In conclusion, exercise training is highly recommendable for people with DS, to improve their balance and prevent falling risk.