Article

The purpose of this study was to determine whether whole-body
vibration training could improve standing balance and muscle strength in children
with Down syndrome.
This study was a randomized controlled trial studying
30 children (8-10 yrs old) with Down syndrome. They were assigned randomly using
sealed envelopes, with 15 children allocated to the control group (9 boys, 6
girls) and another 15 children allocated to the study group (8 boys, 7 girls).
The control group received a designed physical therapy program, whereas the study
group received the same program given to the control group in addition to
whole-body vibration training. Both groups received the treatment sessions three
times per week for 6 successive months. Measurement of stability indices by using
the Biodex Stability System as well as muscle strength of the knee flexors and
extensors by using a handheld dynamometer was done before and after the 6 mos of
the treatment program. RESULTS: Each group demonstrated significant improvements
in stability indices and muscle strength after treatment (P < 0.05), with
significantly greater improvements seen in the study group when compared with the
control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Whole-body vibration may be a useful
intervention modality to improve balance and muscle strength in children with
Down syndrome.

Langue : ANGLAIS