The Effect of Balance Bike Training on Balance, Physical Activity Levels, and Participation in Children and Youth Down Down Syndrome: a Pilot Study

Detailed Summary

Background: Children with Down syndrome (DS) present with hypotonia, impaired balance and poor gross motor proficiency which lead to difficulty learning new motor skills, decreased engagement in physical activity, and limited participation in home, school, and community activities. Bicycle riding is a popular childhood activity with multiple health benefits; however, children with DS often have difficulty learning to ride a standard two-wheel bike. Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the effectiveness of the Strider "Learn to Ride" intervention when used to teach children with DS to ride a two-wheel balance bike. Additional purposes include examining the immediate effects of the five-day "Learn to Ride" intervention on the balance of children with DS and the long-term effects of completion of the intervention on the participation and physical activity levels of children with DS. Methods: An estimated 10 children between the ages of 5 and 17 years old will be recruited to participate in this pre- post-test group design study. The participants will complete the five-day Strider "Learn to Ride" intervention under the instruction of a pediatric physical therapist. The immediate effects of the intervention on distance cycled and balance, using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS), will be assessed. Participation and physical activity levels will be assessed at long term follow-up using the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth (PEM-CY) and a PROMIS physical activity questionnaire.

Study Details

Timeline

Interventions