Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development and is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder, according to the National Association of Down syndrome. Children born with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes, rather than the typical 46. These children usually have low muscle tone and are delayed in their walking ability. Research has shown that treadmill treatment can help Down syndrome children learn to walk at an earlier age.
Low Muscle Tone
Almost all Down syndrome children have low muscle tone or hypotonia. Children with hypotonia have loose flabby muscles that do not have the stamina for normal movement. Because of hypotonia, Down syndrome children usually learn to walk at around age 2, whereas, most children learn to walk at approximately 11 months. Physical therapy, such as treadmill training has been successful in helping your child with Down syndrome learn to walk at an earlier age.
Tiny Treadmills
Kinesiologists at the University of Michigan have developed a tiny treadmill to help babies with Down syndrome build muscle and learn to balance themselves and walk earlier, according to Science Daily. The treadmill training is performed daily for eight minutes and has been shown to help children with Down syndrome walk six months earlier than normal.
Early Intervention
Early use of treadmill therapy is important and can often give your child with Down syndrome the opportunity to reach their highest potential. Down syndrome babies can often begin treadmill training as early as eight months. Development of walking skills has other positive effects and has shown to be a factor in the development of cognitive, social and language skills.
Parental Involvement
It is a good idea for both parents to be involved in the child's treadmill exercise program. One parent can support the child under the arms, with the child's feet contacting the treadmill mat. The other parent can sit in front of the treadmill to keep the child's feet in the front position and to provide encouragement and motivation. Short breaks can be provided, if your child needs to rest during the eight-minute walk.
Value of Treadmill Walking
Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate impairment, but they are more like other children than different. Children with Down syndrome are slower in their developmental skills, including motor and muscular development. Besides learning to walk earlier, treadmill therapy has also been shown to play a role in your child's social and intellectual development.
