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A Novel Balance Training Program for Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Randomized Controlled
Shirley S M Fong1, X Guo, Yoyo T Y Cheng
1From the Institute of Human Performance, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong (SF, YC, TY, DM); Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong (XG, WT); School of Science and Health (Occupational Therapy), University of Western Sydney, NSW, Australia (KL); and Department of Health and Physical Education, The Hong Kong Institute of Education, Tai Po, Hong Kong (LC).
Functional movement-power training (FMPT) significantly improved balance and neuromuscular performance in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) compared to functional movement training (FMT) alone or no training.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects motor skills in children.
- Balance and neuromuscular performance are often impaired in children with DCD.
- Targeted training programs may enhance motor function in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of functional movement-power training (FMPT) versus functional movement training (FMT) and a control group.
- To assess improvements in balance strategies and neuromuscular performance in children with DCD.
- To determine if FMPT offers superior benefits over FMT for DCD.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, single-blinded, parallel group controlled trial involving 161 children with DCD (aged 6-10 years).
- Participants were assigned to FMPT, FMT, or control groups, with FMPT and FMT receiving 3 months of twice-weekly training.
- Balance was assessed using the sensory organization test (computerized dynamic posturography), and neuromuscular performance via knee muscle peak force and time to peak force.
Main Results:
- FMPT group showed significantly greater improvement in balance strategies compared to FMT and control groups.
- FMPT also led to greater improvements in knee extensor peak force and time to peak force in knee flexors.
- The FMPT program demonstrated superior efficacy in enhancing balance and neuromuscular function.
Conclusions:
- Functional movement-power training (FMPT) is more effective than functional movement training (FMT) for improving balance and neuromuscular performance in children with DCD.
- FMPT offers a promising intervention for addressing motor deficits in children with DCD.
- These findings support the integration of power components into functional training for pediatric motor disorders.
