Down Syndrome
Therapy, Exercise, & Nutrition
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition, which occurs when there is a trisomy, or extra copy of the 21st pair of chromosomes. Typically there are 23 pair of chromosomes. In down syndrome, also called trisomy 21, there are three chromosomes in the 21st set, rather than the typical 2 chromosomes. This additional 21st chromosome brings with it a myriad of medical challenges and physical characteristics. Down Syndrome occurs in 1 of every 800 to 1000 live births, and it is suggested that the incident of Down Syndrome is actually much higher, as the majority of people undergoing prenatal testing to detect Down Syndrome choose to terminate the pregnancy following a positive Down Syndrome test result.
People with Down Syndrome typically have mild to moderate mental retardation, delayed physical, speech, and emotional development and physical characteristics commonly associated with Down Syndrome, such as short stature, flattened facial features, and simian crease. In addition to these characteristics people with Down Syndrome often have pervasive medical challenges such as muscular, heart, digestive, respiratory and endocrine disorders. Despite the challenges faced by people with Down syndrome, with appropriate medical care, regular therapy, and extraordinary attention to diet, these challenges can be overcome and people with Down Syndrome can live longer, healthier more productive lives.
Therapy & Exercise for Down Syndrome
Because people with Down Syndrome suffer from low muscle tone, therapy and exercise can be especially critical. Regular therapy and exercise can minimize complications and health problems caused by low muscle tone. Speech, occupational, and physical therapy are provided free of charge through-out the United States for persons with Down Syndrome. Speech therapy involves speech and oral motor development in preparation for speech. Occupational therapy involves fine motor tasks, such as grasping, cutting and drawing. Physical therapy involves large motor functions such as crawling, walking, kicking and riding a bicycle. In most areas, the school system is responsible for providing these services before the child reaches Kindergarten. Therapists will come to the child’s home and make recommendations for feeding, crawling, walking, fine motor and speech exercises to help the child develop these skills.
It is critical that infants with Down Syndrome be fed slowly and patiently as they often have a weak suck and are prone to aspirated, or inhale rather than swallow, if fed to quickly. Coordination of breathing and eating is sometimes delayed, so it is critical that feeding be done slowly and with a great deal of care. A trained Occupational or Speech therapist can evaluate an infant for feeding complications and recommend oral motor exercises for the infant. Caregivers should provide plenty of stimulation for the infant with down syndrome including all the senses, vision, touch, taste, smell and hearing. Stimulating these senses will encourage infant development.
Diet & Nutrition for Down Syndrome
Nutritional supplementation targeting commonly lacking nutrients in people with Down Syndrome began in the 1950s and continues today. Sometimes called "targeted nutritional intervention," these supplements are available at International Nutrition. Additionally, coenzyme Q10, essential fatty acids, and zinc have all shown benefits to people with Down Syndrome. Coenzyme Q10 prevents heart damage. Essential Fatty Acids stimulate brain and cardiovascular development.
Down Syndrome
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