Exploring the Efficacy of a Dynamic Harness System on Gross Motor Development and Motivation for Infants With Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2024 Oct 1;36(4):468-476. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000001130. Epub 2024 Oct 1.

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the benefits of a Partial Body Weight Support (PBWS) harness system within a play enriched environment on gross motor development and mastery motivation of infants with Down Syndrome (DS).

Methods: A randomized crossover study with 17 pre-walking infants with DS in two conditions-play with or without the harness engaged-each for 3×/week over 3 weeks with a 1-week washout. Assessments took place at baseline, crossover, and completion.

Results: Statistically and clinically significant changes were evident on the Gross Motor Function Measure-88; however, there were no significant changes in parent-reported mastery motivation.

Conclusion: The combination of PBWS harness system support and high frequency-facilitated play within an enriched play environment positively affected gross motor development. The intervention did not impact mastery motivation skills, and the direct impact of the harness remains unclear.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05307523.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Child Development* / physiology
  • Cross-Over Studies*
  • Down Syndrome* / rehabilitation
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Motivation*
  • Motor Skills* / physiology
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Pilot Projects
  • Play and Playthings

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT05307523