Effects of Stretch-shortening Cycle Exercises Postural Control in Down Syndrome

a variety of physical therapy techniques are being used to improve lower limb muscle strength and postural control in children with Down syndrome including, but not limited to, progressive resistance training, hippotherapy, aquatic therapy, and isokinetic strength training. Stretch-shortening (SSC) exercises-also referred to as plyometric exercises, is a traditional form of resistance training that involves three-phase muscle contraction during dynamic movements (like jumping and hopping), where the muscle moves rapidly through the eccentric, isometric, and concentric phases.

Inclusion criteria

• age between 7 and 9 years.
• able to follow one step motor commands.
• independent ambulators.
• not suffering from atlantoaxial joint instability as reported from their medical files.

Exclusion criteria

• Children with un-corrected cardiac anomalies.
• Children with un-corrected vision or hearing loss.
• Children with un-corrected pulmonary disorders.
• Children with un-corrected neurological signs as epilepsy.
• Children who had a history of musculoskeletal surgery in the lower extremities through the past year.