Aerobic training's effects on sleep and lung function in children with Down syndrome

Effect of Aerobic Training on Sleep Problems and Pulmonary Functions in Children With Down Syndrome

Not applicable Interventional Cairo University · NCT05861141

This study is testing if adding treadmill exercises to regular physical therapy can help improve sleep and lung function in children with Down syndrome aged 7 to 12.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages7 Years to 12 Years
SexAll
SponsorCairo University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cairo)
Trial IDNCT05861141 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how aerobic training, specifically treadmill exercises, impacts sleep problems and pulmonary functions in children aged 7 to 12 with Down syndrome. A total of 30 children will be randomly divided into two groups: one receiving a standard physical therapy program and the other receiving the same program plus aerobic training. Sleep issues will be assessed using the Arabic version of the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, while pulmonary functions will be measured with a handheld spirometer before and after the intervention. The goal is to determine if aerobic exercise can improve both sleep quality and lung function in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7 to 12 with Down syndrome who can follow simple instructions and walk independently.

Not a fit: Patients with visual or hearing defects, spinal abnormalities, recent pulmonary infections, or those on medications affecting sleep may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved sleep quality and respiratory health in children with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on aerobic training in this demographic, similar interventions have shown positive outcomes in improving sleep and pulmonary functions in other populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children with Down syndrome (trisomy 21).
* Their ages range from 7 to 12 years old.
* Both sexes will be included.
* Children should be able to understand and follow simple verbal commands or instructions (intelligence quotient (IQ) range: 50-70).
* Children should be able to walk independently.
* Their total scores on the Arabic version of the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) equal 41 or higher.

Exclusion Criteria:

Children will be excluded from the study if they:

* Have visual or hearing defects.
* Have spinal abnormality such as kyphosis and scoliosis.
* Have history of pulmonary infection and surgery of thoracic and abdominal region within the past 6 months.
* Play any specific sport or exercises.
* Have physical activity restrictions.
* Have musculoskeletal disorder.
* Take medications known to affect sleep.

Where this trial is running

Cairo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Down SyndromeAerobic TrainingTreadmill TrainingSleepSleep ProblemsSleep DisturbancesObstructive Sleep ApneaPulmonary Functions
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.