Effects of a multisensory training program into sensory dominance in young adult people with Down syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a multisensory training program into somatic sensory dominance in standing in young adults with Down syndrome (SD). Method: Study with a quantitative approach and descriptive scope. The sample consists of (n = 6) young adults with DS between 19 ± 5 years of age. The ICTSIB (1) test was applied, which determined the component of visual domain (DS), proprioceptive (DP), vestibular (DV) by registering in percentages (%) using APDM Mobility Lab ©. The ICTSIB test was done before, during and after the training program. The exercises was made twice a week during 45 minutes each. Friedman test was used and Wilconxon test showed significant differences in between first and middles values of sensory dominance and between first and last values.  Results: The records made by ICTSIB for the DS variables: initial: 36.50 (%) ± 31.8; Intermediate: 24.17 (%) ± 38.02; Final: 9.33 (%) ± 10.03; DP: Initial values: 23.33 ± 32.05; Intermediate values: 0.333 ± 0.816; Final values: 8,333 ± 5,241; DV: Initial values: 50.83 ± 47.31; Intermediate values: 0.833 ± 0.983; Final values: 7.5 ± 10.21. Conclusion: There are significant changes in sensory dominance assessed by ICTSIB testing after the multisensory training program and clinical changes are observed, however, subsequent studies with a larger sample are suggested.