The effect of pressure pants on motor development, standing and walking balance, motor activities and joint attention (in addition) in young children with Down syndrome.

Abstract

Abstract Background. Recently, a new tool (i.e. pressure pants) to promote motor development, in particular for standing and walking, for young children with Down syndrome has been introduced. As of yet no scientific studies have been conducted into the effect of pressure pants on the ability of young children to stand and walk. Goal. To investigate the effect of pressure pants on motor development, standing and walking balance, motor activities and joint attention (in addition) in young children with Down syndrome. Method. A cohort of 15 children aged 2 to 5 years wore the pressure pants during a period of 4 months. The motor skills were measured with the “Basismotorische Vaardigheden van Kinderen met Down syndroom” (BVK) test. Changes in balance- and motor activities, and joint attention were scored by means of a Visual Analogue Scale questionnaire filled out by the parent. Results. Children who wore the pressure pants demonstrated a significant larger increase in BVK score in comparison to the reference group. According to parents, no significant effects from wearing the pressure pants on balance and motor activities were observed, however parents reported a significant change in joint attention. Conclusion. A pressure pants seems to have a stimulating effect on the development of standing up and walking in young children with Down syndrome. Additionally, a pressure pants seems to improve the joint attention between parent and child. For future research, a larger cohort of children with Down syndrome is warranted.