Pediatrics > Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Facts and Physical Therapy
Pathology:
-
Genetic disorder usually associated with an extra 21st chromosome.
Impairments:
- Neurological: Generalized hypotonia (low muscle tone); motor delays
- Musculoskeletal: Atlanto-axial subluxation is common in the neck; ligamentous laxity; hypermobility (flexibility) and associated orthopedic problems
- Cardiopulmonary: Cardiac anomalies present in 40% of individuals with Down Syndrome and may contribute to motor delays
- Cognitive: Smaller brain size and head circumference is associated with the disorder
- Auditory and Visual: Hearing and visual deficits present in 40-60%; ear infections common
Functional Limitations:
- Hypontonia contributes to gross motor delays
- Cardiopulmonary function may limit exercise
- Forceful neck movements should be avoided
- Walking is typically delayed
- Difficulty with ADLs (activities of daily living: dressing, feeding, etc)
What can Physical Therapy do to help my child?
- Provide antigravity interventions to minimize motor delays
- Provide hands-on techniques to improve joint alignment with movement
- Use handling-techniques to facilitate age appropriate motor skills
- May use kinesiotaping to facilitate active movement or provide stability
- Provide a home program to assure carryover
- Provide orthotic assessment/training if prescribed by a physician
