Effectiveness of Core Stability and Trunk-Focused Exercise Interventions on Balance, Postural Control and Gross Motor Function in Children with Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Harini S, Senthil Kumar N

Abstract: Children with Down syndrome commonly present with hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, delayed postural control, and poor trunk stability, which adversely affect balance, gross motor function, and functional independence. Core stability and trunk-focused exercise interventions have been increasingly incorporated into pediatric physiotherapy to address these motor impairments; however, consolidated evidence regarding their effectiveness remains limited. This systematic review assessed the influences of core stability and trunk control exercises on balance, posture, and overall motor skills among children with Down syndrome. A comprehensive search of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines for English language studies. Included were interventions such as Swiss ball exercises, Pilates, neurodevelopmental therapy-based trunk exercises, stretch-shortening cycle trampoline drills, and treadmill-based practice. Six studies, including randomized trials and experimental designs, met the inclusion criteria. Due to the differing methodologies and assessment tools, the results were synthesized narratively rather than statistically. Across all studies, core-oriented programs showed large improvements in static and dynamic balance, core muscle power, postural control, and gross motor coordination activities. The best clinical outcomes were obtained by interventions that combined trunk strengthening with lower limb or walking training. The results provide compelling evidence that incorporating well-structured core and trunk exercises into physiotherapy regimen can significantly enhance motor abilities and daily independence for children with Down syndrome.

Keywords: Down syndrome, gross motor coordination, Swiss ball, Pilates, pediatric rehabilitation

How to Cite?: Harini S, Senthil Kumar N, "Effectiveness of Core Stability and Trunk-Focused Exercise Interventions on Balance, Postural Control and Gross Motor Function in Children with Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 758-762, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26111205140, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26111205140