Physical Therapy in Down Syndrome

In writing this page, Physical Therapy in Down Syndrome, I have drawn from the many things I have learned from Sam's therapist as well as books read and websites visited.

Though it is common belief that the goal of physical therapy in Down Syndrome is to help the child attain developmental milestones sooner, this is not the case.

The goal of physical therapy in Down Syndrome is to help the child learn to move his body in appropriate ways. For example, hypotonia in a child with Down Syndrome may cause him to walk in a way that is not posturally correct. This is called compensation. Without physical therapy many, if not most, children who have Down Syndrome will adjust their movements to compensate for their low muscle tone. This can lead to problems, such as pain, in the future. So the goal of physical therapy is to teach proper physical movement.

Therefore, it is very important the physical therapist is trained and knowledgeable in the ways in which children with Down Syndrome tend to compensate for their low muscle tone, loose joints, and other musculoskeletal differences.

This said, bear in mind that the therapist is there to help you and your child learn how to work on physical skills at home. The amount of physical therapy a child receives is based on the evaluation of the physical therapist, but will often not be more than once a week. This, of course, depends on the individual child. Nevertheless, the small amount of time the therapist spends with you and your child is for instructional purposes. Therefore, the most benefit will be gained when you (the parent or caregiver)actively participate in the therapy sessions.

side note We have heard many times of parents who will take advantage of therapy time by doing housework, or getting on the phone, or even going outside to smoke a cigarette, or other unrelated activities. This, obviously, is not beneficial to the child.

How do I "do" physical therapy with my child?

Let's be real, to say that you should work with your child once a day (or more) makes it seem like work. Instead, just play with your child. When your child is active and playing, play with him and try to incorporate some of the things the therapist has taught you. You don't have to have formal sessions. You don't have to have special toys or tools. Children learn through play. Make it fun! Many toys and household items are great tools for "therapy" play at home.

In conclusion, the object of physical therapy in Down Syndrome is not to speed up your child's development, rather, it is to make sure your child develops proper postures and such. This will benefit her not only now, but later in life as well.

Secondly, remember that the bulk of the physical therapy in Down Syndrome comes through the parents (or caregivers) working (playing) with the child. Your participation is vital!

Personally Speaking: I was always very worried and stressed that I was not "working" with Sam enough. Not a day went by that I didn't think, "I've got to work with him, I've got towork with him." I nearly drove myself nuts. Can you imagine, three different therapists, so we would have had to have three seperate therapy sessions a day. Not that I would not do anything in the world for him, but I was stressed!!! Every day we did not "work" I would feel so guilty. Finally, I learned to let it go. It took a while and it was very difficult (being the type "A" person that I am). Now some days we don't do anything therapy related. Other days, it is incorporated into play, meal time, bath time, or wherever we can fit it. Even when we spend those endless hours in doctors' waiting rooms.

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