Effect of Baduanjin on physical functioning and balance in adults with mild-to-moderate intellectual disabilities: A comparative study

J Appl Res Intellect Disabil. 2023 Jul;36(4):768-776. doi: 10.1111/jar.13092. Epub 2023 Mar 18.

Abstract

Background: Adults with intellectual disabilities often experience mobility limitations. Baduanjin, a mindfulness-based exercise intervention, can exert positive effects on functional mobility and balance. This study examined the impact of Baduanjin on physical functioning and balance of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Method: Twenty-nine adults with intellectual disabilities participated in the study. Eighteen received a Baduanjin intervention for 9-months; 11 participants did not receive any intervention (comparison group). Physical functioning and balance were assessed using the short physical performance battery (SPPB) and stabilometry.

Results: Participants in the Baduanjin group experienced significant changes in the SPPB walking test (p = .042), chair stand test (p = .015), and SPPB summary score (p = .010). No significant changes between groups were observed in any of the variables assessed at the end of the intervention.

Conclusions: Baduanjin practice may cause significant, albeit small, improvements in physical functioning of adults with intellectual disabilities.

Keywords: Baduanjin; disability; physical functioning; short physical performance battery; stabilometry.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Intellectual Disability* / therapy
  • Physical Functional Performance*
  • Postural Balance*
  • Qigong*