Learning to walk
Children with Down syndrome learn to walk later than their
typically-developing peers. 'Low muscle tone' (hypotonia) is
frequently cited as one of the causes of motor delay among
people with Down syndrome. However, there is no standardised
measure of 'muscle tone' and its precise nature is not well
understood.
This study will investigate aspects of motor development and
muscle tone that directly impact learning to walk. The study
will examine control of the ankle joint in young children with
Down syndrome and a control group of typically-developing
children. Control of the ankle joint is important for balance
and effective leverage and propulsion during weight bearing
activity and is therefore vital for walking.
The study will also examine the stepping patterns of infants
undertaking an early treadmill training intervention. This
will build on the results of earlier studies, offering insight
into the development of independent walking and the factors
influencing delays.
Investigators
Partners and advisors
Location
Study results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific publications. Practice
implications will be published in periodicals for families and professionals, including
Down Syndrome Research and Practice and incorporated into freely available
Down Syndrome Topics advice and information summaries and
Down Syndrome
Issues and Information books. Open Access articles and summaries will be
provided for reproduction in the newsletters and journals of associations, support
groups and professional societies. The study results will also be shared
through the charity's training courses and its contributions to
conferences in the UK and worldwide.
- An improved understanding of the reasons for the delay
in walking among infants with Down syndrome
- An improved understanding of muscle stiffness and 'tone'
in infants with Down syndrome
- Recommendations for effective interventions to promote
early motor development and accelerate learning to walk
The project is in progress.