Effects of a Structured Physical Activity Program on Balance and Functional Performance in Children With Down Syndrome

NCT07534085 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: 2025/373-ANKU-ETIK
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 15
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

Children with Down syndrome commonly exhibit hypotonia, impaired balance, and reduced functional mobility. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a structured yoga-based physical activity program on balance and functional performance in children with Down syndrome. Fifteen children aged 7-12 years participated in a 12-week intervention program consisting of adaptive yoga exercises, breathing techniques, and relaxation practices. Outcome measures included balance assessment using a sensor-based digital system and functional performance tests. The findings are expected to provide evidence on the effectiveness of structured physical activity interventions in improving motor performance in children with Down syndrome.

Conditions

Down Syndrome (DS); Balance Assessment; Physical Activities; Yoga; Rehabilitation

Keywords

Down Syndrome; Yoga Therapy; Balance; Physical Performance; Rehabilitation

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (1)

• Static Balance Performance

  Static balance was assessed using a sensor-based balance system (BOBO Pro 2). Measurements included stability and postural sway parameters recorded during quiet standing in children with Down syndrome.

  Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

Secondary Outcomes (2)

• Dynamic Balance Performance

  Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

• Functional Performance (Timed Up and Go Test and Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test)

  Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

Study Arms (1)

Yoga Intervention

EXPERIMENTAL

Participants received a structured yoga-based physical activity program designed for children with Down syndrome. The program focused on improving balance, postural control, and functional performance. Sessions were conducted 3 times per week for 8 weeks, each lasting approximately 45-60 minutes.

Behavioral: Yoga Program

Interventions

Yoga Program BEHAVIORAL

A structured yoga-based exercise program including balance, coordination, and postural control exercises tailored for children with Down syndrome. The intervention aimed to enhance motor performance and functional abilities.

Yoga Intervention

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 7 Years - 18 Years
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: No
• Age Groups: Child (0-17), Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Children aged 7-18 years with a clinical diagnosis of Down syndrome
• Ability to follow simple verbal instructions
• Ability to stand independently with or without assistive devices
• Participation in a structured physical activity program
• Informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians

You may not qualify if:

• Severe orthopedic, neurological, or cardiovascular conditions affecting balance or mobility
• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Severe visual or vestibular impairments affecting balance
• Recent lower limb surgery or injury (within the past 6 months)
• Inability to complete assessment procedures

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Ankara University: lead

Study Sites (1)

Ankara University

Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location

MeSH Terms

Conditions

Down Syndrome; Motor Activity

Condition Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Intellectual Disability; Neurobehavioral Manifestations; Neurologic Manifestations; Nervous System Diseases; Abnormalities, Multiple; Congenital Abnormalities; Congenital, Hereditary, and Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities; Chromosome Disorders; Genetic Diseases, Inborn; Behavior

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: NA
• Masking: NONE
• Purpose: TREATMENT
• Intervention Model: SINGLE GROUP
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Professor

Model Details: All participants were assigned to a single group and received the same structured yoga-based physical activity intervention. Outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention.

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: April 9, 2026
• First Posted: April 16, 2026
• Study Start: June 1, 2025
• Primary Completion: September 3, 2025
• Study Completion: October 5, 2025
• Last Updated: April 16, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-04

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

TU (1)