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NCT Number: NCT07534085

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

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.

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Key information

Conditions

Down Syndrome (DS) Abnormalities, Multiple Balance Assessment Behavior Chromosome Disorders Congenital Abnormalities Congenital, Hereditary, and Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities Down Syndrome Genetic Diseases, Inborn Intellectual Disability Motor Activity Nervous System Diseases Neurobehavioral Manifestations Neurologic Manifestations Physical Activities Rehabilitation Yoga

Age range

7 year–18 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Ankara University

Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This study was designed as a single-group interventional pilot study to investigate the effects of a structured yoga-based physical activity program on balance and functional performance in children with Down syndrome.

Participants aged between 7 and 12 years were recruited from a special education center. The intervention lasted 12 weeks and included adaptive yoga postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques tailored to the functional abilities of the participants.

Balance was assessed using a sensor-based digital balance system, and functional performance was evaluated using standardized clinical tests including the Timed Up and Go test, Five Times Sit to Stand test, Two-Minute Walk Test, and One-Leg Balance Test.

Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention. The study aimed to explore whether structured physical activity can improve postural control and functional mobility in children with Down syndrome.

This pilot study provides preliminary evidence to support the integration of structured physical activity programs into rehabilitation strategies for children with Down syndrome.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • 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

Exclusion criteria

  • 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

Treatment and study plan

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.

Primary outcomes

  1. Static Balance Performance

    Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

    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.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Dynamic Balance Performance

    Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

    Dynamic balance was evaluated using functional balance tasks with a sensor-based system (BOBO Pro 2), assessing movement control and postural stability during dynamic activities in children with Down syndrome.

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

    Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks intervention

    Functional performance was assessed using standardized functional tests including the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5xSTS) test. The TUG test evaluates functional mobility, balance, and walking ability, and is recorded as the time in seconds required to stand up from a chair, walk 3 meters, turn, walk back, and sit down. The 5xSTS test assesses lower limb strength and functional mobility and is recorded as the time in seconds required to complete five consecutive sit-to-stand repetitions. All assessments were conducted in children with Down syndrome.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Ankara University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Effects of a Structured Yoga-Based Physical Activity Program on Balance and Functional Performance in Children With Down Syndrome: A Pilot Intervention Study

Acronym: DS-YOGA

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
Apr 16, 2026
Registry last updated
Apr 16, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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