Locomotion and posture disabilities in down syndrome

Down syndrome is the most common of the non-hereditary genetic syndromes causing mental retardation. In addition to the phenotype characteristics, the syndrome is accompanied by multi-system pathological conditions, both congenital and acquired. These conditions involve the abnormal function of the musculo-skeletal system and affect movement in general and gait component more specifically. The abnormal gait develops from early childhood and continues into adulthood. This review focuses on the characteristics of this syndrome as concerning the damage to the lower extremities and trunk and the typical gait patterns.