Evaluation of Motor Performance and Dynamic Balance Control in Children with Down’s Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Children with Down Syndrome (DS) experience significant delays in gross motor and balance functions. Aim: This study aimed to explore the functionality of children with DS in these contexts and investigate the association between gross motor and balance functions. Methodology: Forty children with DS, divided into two age groups (5-10 years and 11-15 years), underwent assessments using the Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) and the Four-Square Step Test (FSST). Results: Results showed that both groups of children with Down syndrome had lower gross motor function and balance scores compared to reference values for typically developing children of similar ages, with significant differences between groups (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed moderate to strong negative associations between GMFM-88 and FSST scores (r = 0.6, p < 0.005; r = 0.73 and 0.56, p < 0.01). Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of assessing and addressing gross motor and balance functions in children with DS. The observed improvements with age emphasize the need for targeted interventions and support.