Effects of Combined Vojta Therapy and Vestibular Neuromuscular Training on Walking Speed and Static Balance in Individuals With Down’s Syndrome

Akila Samayan; Aroona s

Effects of Combined Vojta Therapy and Vestibular Neuromuscular Training on Walking Speed and Static Balance in Individuals With Down’s Syndrome

Author(s)	Dr. Akila Samayan, Prof. Dr. Aroona s
Country	India
Abstract	BACKGROUND: Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Individuals with Down syndrome commonly present with hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, reduced muscle strength, delayed motor development, impaired coordination, and altered postural control. These neuromotor and musculoskeletal characteristics can negatively affect balance, gait, and functional mobility. Reduced walking speed and impaired static balance may further restrict participation in school, recreational, and community activities. Therefore, effective physiotherapy interventions targeting postural control, neuromuscular function, and gait are important in the rehabilitation of individuals with Down syndrome. AIM: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of combined Vojta therapy and vestibular neuromuscular training on walking speed and static balance in individuals with Down syndrome. METHODS: A pre-test and post-test study design was conducted among individuals with Down syndrome aged 10–12 years who fulfilled the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants received a combined intervention consisting of Vojta therapy and vestibular neuromuscular training. The exercise program was administered five times per week for 12 weeks. Static balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and walking performance was assessed using the One-Minute Walk Test (1MWT). Pre-test and post-test scores were recorded and analyzed using a paired t-test, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: The findings of the present study demonstrated significant improvement following the combined Vojta therapy and vestibular neuromuscular training intervention. Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores for both outcome measures. The calculated paired t-value for the Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (BBS) was 17.83, which was greater than the table t-value of 2.145 at the 0.05 level of significance. Similarly, the calculated paired t-value for the One-Minute Walk Test (1MWT) was 30.74, which was greater than the table t-value of 2.145 at the 0.05 level of significance. These findings indicate that the combined intervention significantly improved static balance and walking performance in individuals with Down syndrome. CONCLUSION: The study is expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of combining Vojta therapy with vestibular neuromuscular training as a physiotherapy intervention for improving walking speed and static balance in children with Down syndrome. The findings may contribute to the development of effective rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving functional mobility and postural control in this population.
Keywords	Down Syndrome, Vojta Therapy, Vestibular Neuromuscular Training, Walking Speed, Static Balance, One-Minute Walk Test, Pediatric Berg Balance Scale
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 5, September-October 2026
Published On	2026-10-21

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Effects of Combined Vojta Therapy and Vestibular Neuromuscular Training on Walking Speed and Static Balance in Individuals With Down’s Syndrome

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