Examining for Associations between Motor Disturbances and ADHD Status in Young Adults
MinKyoung Song1, Sydnee A Stoyles1, Martina Mancini1
1Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, USA.
Journal of Attention Disorders
|April 17, 2025
Summary
Young adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may experience impaired balance and gait. Objective measures indicate potential links between ADHD and motor control difficulties in this age group.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Movement Science
Background:
- Previous research suggests a link between Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and balance/gait deficits in children.
- The association between ADHD and motor control in adults remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between ADHD and objective measures of balance and gait in young adults.
- To determine if balance and gait impairments are present in adults with ADHD.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 45 young adults (17-21 years old), with 25 diagnosed with ADHD.
- Balance and gait were assessed using inertial sensors during the Instrumented Stand and Walk Test.
- Demographics and ADHD symptom severity were collected via questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Young adults with ADHD demonstrated a trend towards poorer balance compared to their peers without ADHD.
- Impaired gait performance was observed in the ADHD group during dual-task conditions.
- Objective sensor data revealed differences in motor control during specific balance and gait tasks.
Conclusions:
- Balance and gait impairments are associated with ADHD in young adults.
- Objective balance/gait measures could serve as potential biomarkers for persistent neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD.
- The Instrumented Stand and Walk Test shows promise for evaluating motor control deficits in adults with ADHD.
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