The study of relationship spinal abnormalities with flexibility and body composition in down syndrome girls

Introduction: Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic causes of mild-to-moderate mental retardation. The main signs and symptoms of the disorder are the loss of mental functions and physical abnormalities that affect motor activities. The purpose of this research was to determine the possible relationship between flexibility, body composition and skeletal abnormalities in student with Down syndrome. Materials and Methods: 50 mentally-retarded female students with Down syndrome (age: 13.96 ± 1.77 yr, height: 135.40 ± 8.19 cm, weight: 42.86 ± 9.21 kg, IQ: 59.12 ± 3.73), were randomly selected and enrolled in the study. Demographic and health-related information including age, height, weight, IQ and medical histories were obtained from the students’ medical records. Flexibility and body composition were respectively assessed through asking subjects to complete “sit and reach” test and calculating their body mass index (BMI). Continued spinal abnormalities (kyphosis, lordosis, thoracic and lumbar scoliosis) were measured through Spinal mouse. Results: The results showed a significant correlation between BMI and lordosis (P ≤ 0.05) but there was no significant correlation between flexibility and skeletal abnormalities in the sample studies. Conclusion: Considering the interaction between postural, physical fitness and Special needs among patients with Down syndrome, it would be reasonable to provide affected students with postural corrective exercises, physical fitness and weight control programs in order to ensure that they perform their daily activities optimally. Keywords: Down syndrome, Spinal abnormalities, Flexibility, Body composition