Physiotherapy input for children with Down’s Syndrome

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic condition, which occurs when there is a trisomy, or extra copy of the 21st pair of chromosomes.  Children with Down’s Syndrome require physiotherapy as they all have some degree of gross motor delay which may be related to varying degrees of low muscle tone, muscle weakness, joint hypermobility and poor postural stability.  The earlier in a child’s life physiotherapy is started the better, as these children can learn compensatory movements.  Physiotherapy focuses on increasing core stability and general strengthening in order to facilitate the development of optimal movement patterns and their gross motor skills. Children with Down’s Syndrome need regular input to help make these gains, in our experience children benefit from weekly to fortnightly input.  If your child does not receive this level of input from the NHS then get in touch as we can help.