Project R-14388

Efficacy of intensive balance training in children with developmental coordination disorder: a behavioral and neurological approach (Research)

Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) present with motor control difficulties. These problems have an impact on all aspects of daily life, as it influences their activities and participation at school, at home, etc. Balance control problems are one of the main motor problems in children with DCD. Evidence suggests that children with DCD have altered brain structure and function. There is no knowledge yet about the brain function in children with DCD during balance tasks. With this doctoral project, we aim to get more insights into the brain function during balance tasks and its evolution with age. Although balance problems are a main concern in children with DCD, in literature little is known about balance interventions and their results on balance control and motor skills. With this doctoral project, the effects of two types of intensive balance interventions will be evaluated: 1) a group-based camp model with a variety of activities focussing on all aspects of balance, 2) an individually tailored intervention in immersive virtual reality targeting the specific balance problems of each child. The effects on balance performance and motor skills and the possible changes in brain function will be evaluated. The main goal of this doctoral project is to reduce balance deficits and to gain a better understanding of the brain function during balance tasks, in order to improve the motor skills of children with DCD and subsequently improve their quality of life and participation in daily activities.

15 October 2023 - 14 October 2027