Abstract

Down syndrome is a disease entity associated with a characteristic phenotype and, frequently, congenital defects of organs and systems. A structural pathology of the central nervous system leads to psychomotor retardation and mental impairment later in life. The aim of the article is to present contemporary ideas about the rehabilitation of children with Down syndrome at different ages, from infancy to school age. Regular rehabilitation commenced in the first months of life and continued at pre-school and school age is necessary for better development. The aim of the physiotherapy of infants and pre-school children is to improve muscular tone and psychomotor development. The aim of the physiotherapy of children with Down syndrome at school age is to improve quality of movements and physical capacity. The most popular physiotherapeutic methods used in children with Down syndrome are the NDT-Bobath method and the Vojta method combined with the educational methods of Veronica Sherborne, sensory integration and hippotherapy. The NDT-Bobath method uses key points of control to leads movements of the child, stimulate normal motor responses and inhibit pathological responses. The Vojta method uses stimulation areas to facilitate postural and motor patterns. The Sherborne method essentially aids the development of the child by movement, physical contact and emotional contact with an exercise partner. Sensory integration therapy delivers an adequate amount of stimuli so that the child can spontaneously react and form normal adaptive responses, integrating the stimuli. During hippotherapy, the child exercises during slow-paced horse-ridding.

Key words:

Down syndrome, Vojta, NDT-Bobath