The Strength of Children with Down syndrome
By Kevin Allen BHSc (Hons); MCSP
Evidence has shown that core stability exercises, with certain
adaptation and guidance given by physiotherapists, can be incredibly
beneficial for the treatment and management of hypermobility and low
tone.
I just wanted to take this opportunity, not to boast or to advertise,
after all I didn't perform the treatments, but to tell you how strong
some children can be.
After a recent 3 week group given to children ranging in age from 10
months to 4 years we observed unbelievable results. Without going into
too much detail, the sheer hard work of the children and dedication of
the parents resulted in 1 child sitting up unaided, 1 child sitting up
with minimal assistance, 1 child walking with mum and another child
being able to stand unsupported. None of which could be done prior to
attending the group.
All of these children had Down's syndrome and most of them had
received the same information from hospitals, 'they'll get there in
the end'.
This approach raises 2 questions for me,
1. Why should they wait? and
2. Wouldn't this approach delay their motor development and
subsequently leave them struggling to keep up with their peers at
school?
If they are wanting to help themselves and parents and carers are
clearly wanting to assist them, then as qualified physiotherapists
shouldn't we be giving them all the help they need?
By Kevin Allen BHSc (Hons); MCSP
Evidence has shown that core stability exercises, with certain
adaptation and guidance given by physiotherapists, can be incredibly
beneficial for the treatment and management of hypermobility and low
tone.
I just wanted to take this opportunity, not to boast or to advertise,
after all I didn't perform the treatments, but to tell you how strong
some children can be.
After a recent 3 week group given to children ranging in age from 10
months to 4 years we observed unbelievable results. Without going into
too much detail, the sheer hard work of the children and dedication of
the parents resulted in 1 child sitting up unaided, 1 child sitting up
with minimal assistance, 1 child walking with mum and another child
being able to stand unsupported. None of which could be done prior to
attending the group.
All of these children had Down's syndrome and most of them had
received the same information from hospitals, 'they'll get there in
the end'.
This approach raises 2 questions for me,
1. Why should they wait? and
2. Wouldn't this approach delay their motor development and
subsequently leave them struggling to keep up with their peers at
school?
If they are wanting to help themselves and parents and carers are
clearly wanting to assist them, then as qualified physiotherapists
shouldn't we be giving them all the help they need?
Below is a charity that you can contact if you'd like to know more or get involved with helping people with Down Syndrome.
You can also visit Kevin's site here: http://www.eastridingphysiotherapy.co.uk/
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