Effects of vitamin D supplementation and aerobic exercises on balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome

Abstract

Background/Aims Children with Down syndrome are prone to vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D supplements are commonly used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiencies. There is growing evidence that support the role of vitamin D improving muscles and central nervous system function. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction effects of vitamin D supplementation combined with aerobic exercises and conventional physical therapy on balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome. Methods A randomised controlled trial was conducted for 38 children with Down syndrome, with ages ranging from 8 to 12 years. They were divided randomly into two groups. The control group (n=19) received conventional physical therapy and aerobic exercises, while the study group (n=19) received conventional physical therapy, aerobic exercises and vitamin D in the form of an oral daily dose of vitamin D3 400 IU (cholecalciferol). The children in both groups participated in the same physical therapy for 45 minutes, 3 days a week for 12 weeks, and undertook 15 minutes of aerobic exercise after the physical therapy sessions. Balance was evaluated by using the Biodex Stability System and physical performance was evaluated by using the 6-Minute Walk Test. Results All groups showed a significant improvement in the medial-lateral stability index, the anterior-posterior stability index, the overall stability index and the 6-Minute Walk Test after treatment (P<0.05). The study group showed a significant improvement in the measured variables compared with that of the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions Vitamin D supplements, combined with aerobic exercises and conventional physical therapy, could improve balance and physical performance in children with Down syndrome. Therefore, vitamin D and aerobic exercises should be considered as an adjunctive to physical therapy.