Supporting motor development, balance, posture, and functional independence
Children with Down syndrome often experience low muscle tone, delayed motor milestones, and challenges with balance, posture, and coordination. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in helping children build strength, stability, and confidence to move, explore, and participate more fully in daily activities.
At Next Level Speech and Physiotherapy Dubai, our pediatric physiotherapists provide structured, development-focused physiotherapy programs tailored to the unique needs of children with Down syndrome, from infancy through adolescence.
Families from Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island, and surrounding areas rely on us for compassionate, long-term support.
To explore related pediatric services, visit our Pediatric Physiotherapy services.
How Down Syndrome Affects Movement
Children with Down syndrome may experience:
- Delayed milestones such as rolling, sitting, crawling, and walking
- Low muscle tone (hypotonia)
- Joint laxity or hypermobility
- Poor postural control
- Balance and coordination difficulties
- Delayed gait development
- Fatigue during physical activity
- Reduced endurance for play and school participation
Physiotherapy helps address these challenges through structured, supportive intervention.
Early Intervention and Developmental Support
Early physiotherapy is particularly important for children with Down syndrome. Starting therapy in infancy supports:
- Stronger head and trunk control
- Improved sitting and standing stability
- Safer and more efficient movement patterns
- Better alignment during growth
- Confidence in exploring movement
Early support helps build a strong foundation for future motor skills.
Our Development-Focused Assessment Process
Each child receives an individualised assessment that focuses on functional ability rather than limitations. This includes:
- Evaluation of muscle tone and joint stability
- Postural alignment assessment
- Balance and coordination testing
- Gait and walking analysis when appropriate
- Functional movement observation (transitions, play, mobility)
- Review of endurance and activity tolerance
- Discussion with parents about goals, routines, and concerns
This helps us design a personalised therapy plan that matches the child’s developmental stage.
Physiotherapy Strategies for Down Syndrome
Therapy programs are structured, engaging, and adapted to each child’s pace. Sessions may include:
- Core strengthening to improve trunk stability
- Balance and coordination activities
- Posture training for sitting, standing, and movement
- Gait training to support efficient walking patterns
- Functional strengthening for daily activities
- Motor planning and movement sequencing
- Endurance-building through play-based activities
- Joint stability exercises to support hypermobility
Therapy focuses on ability, participation, and confidence.
Supporting Walking and Functional Mobility
Walking and mobility are common therapy goals. We support children by focusing on:
- Improved foot placement and alignment
- Stability during standing and walking
- Safe progression of gait skills
- Confidence on uneven surfaces
- Coordination for running and climbing
- Reduced fatigue during daily movement
Adaptive strategies are used when needed to support independence.
Home Programs and Parent Participation
Consistent practice at home is essential. We support families through:
- Easy-to-follow home exercise programs
- Activity-based routines for daily practice
- Guidance on safe movement and positioning
- Tips to encourage physical play and participation
- Education on supporting posture and balance at home
Home-based physiotherapy sessions are available for families who prefer care in familiar surroundings.
Long-Term Therapy and Growth Monitoring
Children with Down syndrome benefit from ongoing support as they grow. Our long-term approach includes:
- Regular reassessment during growth phases
- Program progression as strength and skills improve
- Monitoring joint stability and posture
- Supporting transitions into school and sports
- Adjusting therapy goals to match developmental stages
The focus remains on functional independence and participation.
Why Families Choose Next Level Speech and Physiotherapy Dubai
Parents trust our clinic because we offer:
- DHA-licensed pediatric physiotherapists experienced in Down syndrome care
- Individualised, development-focused therapy plans
- A supportive, child-friendly environment
- Flexible clinic and home-based therapy options
- Clear communication and parent education
- Long-term commitment to developmental support
We work closely with families to support each child’s unique journey.
Book a Down Syndrome Physiotherapy Assessment
We support children and families from Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Bluewaters Island, Palm Jumeirah, and nearby communities.
To arrange an assessment or speak with our team, please contact us.
Stability Before Speed: A Key Focus in Therapy
Children with Down syndrome often develop motor skills at a different pace due to low muscle tone and joint laxity. Physiotherapy prioritises stability, alignment, and control rather than rushing milestones.
Building a strong foundation allows children to move more safely and confidently as skills emerge. This approach supports long-term posture, balance, and endurance.
When stability improves, children often show better participation, reduced fatigue, and increased confidence in movement.
FAQs – Down Syndrome Physiotherapy
1. When should physiotherapy start for a child with Down syndrome?
Physiotherapy can begin in infancy to support early motor development and postural control.
2. Can physiotherapy help with low muscle tone?
While tone itself does not change, physiotherapy improves strength, stability, and functional movement.
3. Will my child learn to walk with therapy?
Many children with Down syndrome learn to walk with physiotherapy support, although timelines vary.
4. How often will therapy be needed?
Frequency depends on the child’s needs and goals. Many benefit from regular sessions over time.
5. Does therapy help with balance and coordination?
Yes. Balance and coordination training are key parts of physiotherapy for Down syndrome.
6. Are joint issues a concern?
Joint laxity is common. Physiotherapy focuses on stability and safe movement patterns.
7. Can physiotherapy support school readiness?
Yes. Improved posture, endurance, and mobility support classroom participation.
8. Do you offer home-based therapy?
Yes. Home sessions are available for families who prefer them.
9. Is physiotherapy a long-term requirement?
Many children benefit from ongoing support, especially during growth phases.
10. How do I get started?
You can begin by visiting our Contact Us page to book an assessment.