Children and adults with developmental disabilities often have low muscle tone, which can affect posture, endurance and motor skills. Though it is controversial as to whether muscle tone can increase, it is clear that a person with low tone can build muscle strength and increase function, according to Nora Shields and Nicholas F. Taylor, writing in the "Journal of Physiotherapy." Arm toning exercises can be of great benefit for a child developing motor skills and throughout the lifespan, as activity levels, and therefore strength, may decrease in adults with developmental disabilities.Before beginning any exercise program with a child or adult, it is important to consult with a physician or therapist for individualized recommendations.
Shoulder Girdle Exercises
The shoulder girdle provides a base of stability and supports the arm through its range of movement. Weightbearing on the hands can develop muscles in the shoulders and arms. The child can lie prone on her stomach over an exercise ball and walk her hands out and back. Wall or chair push-ups also work well to build stability in the shoulders. To perform these, the child should place her hands at or slightly below shoulder level on the wall, or to increase difficulty, on a sturdy chair. Keeping her stomach muscles tightened, the child should step her feet back until she is using her hands to support some of her weight. Next, have the child bend her arms to a 90-degree angle until her nose touches the wall, pushing back to straighten the arms, while maintaining a slight bend at the elbows. Repeat 10 to 15 times, every other day.
Arm-Toning Exercises
Using just a few pieces of equipment, the child with a developmental disability can perform several fun arm-toning exercises. The first requires a small weighted ball, of 1 to 5 pounds depending on the age and weight of the child, which can be purchased from a local sports or exercise store. The child can throw and catch the ball with a partner or by himself. By throwing the ball from one hand to the other, the child tones his biceps muscles as he bends his arms. Throwing the ball with force towards a target or a person can strengthen the chest muscles and triceps muscles. Another useful and inexpensive piece of equipment is called Thera-Band, which can be attached to a doorknob securely or held by a parent. The child can pull the bands in a rowing motion, keeping the arms close to the body. Repeat 10 to 15 times, every other day.
Hand Strengthening Exercises
One of the most common symptoms of a developmental disability is a fine motor delay. Hand strengthening exercises can help develop stability and precision for fine motor skills such as writing and manipulating buttons and zippers. The child can have fun in toning her muscles by squeezing water out of sponges, squirting spray bottles and playing with a special substance called therapy putty. These exercises can be done frequently, but should be alternated to avoid overuse of the same muscles.
References
- "Journal of Physiotherapy"; A student-led progressive resistance training program increases lower limb muscle strength in adolescents with Down syndrome: a randomised controlled trial; Nora Shields and Nicholas F. Taylor; 2010
- National Center on Physical Activity and Disability: Introduction to Achieving A Beneficial Fitness for Persons with Developmental Disabilities
- "Fine Motor Skills in Children with Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals"; Maryanne Bruni; 1998
