EFFECTS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY ON THE FUNCTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME: CLINICAL CASE REPORT

Abstract

Down Syndrome (DS) is one of the most common chromosomal diseases, also known as “Trisomy 21”, characterized as a genetic disorder that causes mental deficiency in varying degrees due to an error in the distribution of chromosomes found in pair 21, with an extra chromosome being found and can be observed since fetal development. Physiotherapy in children with DS aims to stimulate motor learning processes, as well as typical motor development along with their rehabilitation. The present study aims to evaluate the evolution of patients diagnosed with Down Syndrome through physiotherapeutic treatment. The following study consisted of a case study, carried out at the Physiotherapy Teaching Clinic, in the Physiotherapy course. A male patient diagnosed with Down Syndrome was treated, and cognitive stimulation procedures were performed through playful resources, balance training, proprioceptive exercises, strengthening of upper and lower limbs and orthostatism. At the end of 17 sessions carried out in 2025, it was possible to observe significant functional evolution. It is therefore concluded that physiotherapy, when carried out in an individualized, continuous and stimulating manner, contributes significantly to improving the quality of life and functional autonomy of children with Down Syndrome.