African Down Syndrome Network

Proprioception is part of the sensory system. Proprioceptive sensors in our muscles and joints give feedback so we know where our bodies are in space.

Proprioceptive sensors work differently in people with Down syndrome which can impact:
➡ Motor coordination (they may appear "clumsy")
➡ Motor planning (they may have difficulty carrying out a movement even though they know how to do it)
➡ Movement grading (using too much or too little force when doing a movement)

Providing input to the muscles and joints or proprioceptive input can improve proprioception. Ways to get proprioceptive input include physical activity, bear hugs, doing chores, pushing a cart, weighted blankets, joint compression, massage, and more.

Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L, provides more information on proprioception in people with Down syndrome in the article linked below.

🔗 https://adultdownsyndrome.org/resources/proprioceptive-input/

DSDnewsSOUTH AFRICA SUPPORTS GREATER REPRESENTATION OF PERSONS WITH DOWN SYNDROME AT COSP19 SIDE EVENT By Staff Writer Acting Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga called for a shift from symbolic inclusion to meaningful representation of persons with Down syndrome in decision-making processes. The COSP19 sid…