Postural control in adults with Down syndrome.

BACKGROUND

Adults with Down syndrome present comorbidities that may worsen with age. Although falls are common in this population, postural control hasn't been clinically studied. This study aimed to assess postural control in adults with Down syndrome using Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) and evaluate the role of sensory inputs.

METHOD: Adults with DS (age >18 years) were recruited from outpatient clinic. Exclusion criteria included inability to cooperate or stand. Postural control was assessed with the Equitest DP system which includes the Sensory Organization Test (SOT), measuring composite equilibrium score (COMP), and sensory contributions: somatosensory (SOM), visual (VIS), and vestibular (VEST).

RESULTS

Sixty subjects (mean age 36.6 ± 10.3 years, 48.3% male) participated. Pathological COMP scores were in 43.3%. VIS and VEST impairments in 31.7% and 55%, respectively; SOM scores were normal. In linear regression models, VIS and VEST showed associations with age.

CONCLUSIONS

Postural deficits are frequent and unrecognised in Down syndrome.