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Inherited Disorders and Birth Defects

Down syndrome

09/19/2007

Question:

How can I help my child who has Down syndrome to have a normal life? I mean she is wobbly type. She can`t hold her head straight. Will physical therapy help her and how early should we start it?

Answer:

Starting physical therapy shortly after a baby is born with Down syndrome is an excellent suggestion unless there is some medical reason it should not start. Early intervention has been shown to help children with Down syndrome a great deal. Check with your doctor about a referral for early intervention approaches, such as physical therapy.

Also, there are excellent support groups available to parents of children with Down syndrome. Many of these associations have local support groups who have families who can give you suggestions and ideas about providing your child with the best care possible. Two of these groups are listed below.

Related Resources:

National Association for Down Syndrome
National Down Syndrome Society

For more information:

Go to the Inherited Disorders and Birth Defects health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Anne Matthews, RN, PhD Anne Matthews, RN, PhD
Associate Professor of Genetics
School of Medicine
Case Western Reserve University