A systematic review on the effects of exercise programmes designed to improve strength for people with Down syndrome

Abstract

Muscle weakness is common among people with Down syndrome and can contribute to their disability. The literature was systematically reviewed to assess whether programmes designed to increase strength had beneficial outcomes in this group. Electronic databases were searched for relevant articles. Of 304 papers identified, only 3 met the inclusion criteria. Two studies reported increases in strength after progressive resistance strength training with effect sizes ranging from d = 3.08 (95%CI, 2.16-4.00) to d = 7.52 (95%CI, 6.46-8.58). Circuit strength training also had large positive effect sizes ranging from d = 1.94 (95%CI, 1.02-2.86) to d = 5.06 (95%CI, 4.14-5.98). A 25-week treadmill walking programme produced increased lower limb strength with effect sizes of d = 2.68 (95%CI, 1.62-3.73) to d = 11.20 (95%CI, 10.48-11.92). One study reported improvements in walking endurance, speed and distance, as well as improved speed on the timed up-and-go test, but no study examined the effects of these programmes on participation restrictions. No negative effects from training were reported.

Physical therapy in Down syndrome: systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…The limited reviews that study the efficacy of PT (Shields & Dodd ; Dodd & Shields ; Andriolo et al . ; Hardee & Fetters ; Bertapelli et al .…”

“…The limited reviews that study the efficacy of PT (Shields & Dodd 2004;Dodd & Shields 2005;Andriolo et al 2010;Hardee & Fetters 2017;Bertapelli et al 2016;Sugimoto et al 2016) in this population focus on a specific type of intervention. Likewise, there are no known clinical practice guidelines that support the PT interventions in this population.…”

Motor Behavior in Down Syndrome: Atypical Sensoriomotor Control

“…These changes may affect the ability to generate joint torque and strength in isokinetic contractions. For Shields & Dodd (2004) the muscle weakness can also influence the ability to perform daily tasks such as equilibrium.…”

Use of Video Modeling to Teach Weight Lifting Techniques to Adults with Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study

“…Fortunately, research suggests that strength training for adults with DS may lead to improvements in their functional ability, (Shields & Dodd, 2004;Smail & Horvat, 2006) overall health, and well-being (Gupta et al, 2011;Holm, 2008;Winders, 1997). Individuals with DS who possess greater strength may be able to complete a broader range of tasks within community settings, potentially increasing their opportunities for employment (Cowley et al, 2010;Shields & Dodd, 2004).…”

“…Individuals with DS who possess greater strength may be able to complete a broader range of tasks within community settings, potentially increasing their opportunities for employment (Cowley et al, 2010;Shields & Dodd, 2004). Several research teams have demonstrated that adults with DS can increase their strength by participating in progressive resistance training (PRT) (Cowley et al, 2010;Shields, Taylor & Dodd, 2008).…”