The Effects of Physical Activity and Exercise on the Balance of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Many different exercise interventions have been theorized to improve balance in individuals with intellectual disabilities. This review provides an overview of the efficacy and effectiveness of different exercise intervention types on the postural control of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Methods: A literature search was performed in January 2021. Studies were included if they examined active interventions aimed to improve postural control of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Studies were excluded if they were a systematic review or meta-analysis, if English was not the first language, or if their participants were under the age of five. Results: Twenty-three papers met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated for quality. Twenty- one papers with extractable data were evaluated for effectiveness. The most effective interventions had child or adolescent participants and involved multi-component static and dynamic balance activities as well as activities related to ADLs. Conclusion: Participants benefitted most when they were between the ages of nine and sixteen, there was in-person instruction, the intervention involved more than one type of activity, and sensory inputs and ADLs were incorporated. Further research is needed to further apply these implications in an intervention and explore the retention and maintenance of postural control benefits.