Down Syndrome: Understanding Its Causes, Characteristics, and the Role of Therapies in Enhancing Ind

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by abnormal cell division that results in an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material leads to developmental differences and distinct physical features associated with Down syndrome.

Common Physical Features of Down Syndrome:

• Flattened face
• Small head
• Short neck
• Protruding tongue
• Upward slanting eyelids (palpebral fissures)
• Unusually shaped or small ears
• Poor muscle tone
• Broad, short hands with a single crease across the palm
• Relatively short fingers, small hands, and feet
• Excessive flexibility
• Tiny white spots on the iris (colored part of the eye), known as Brushfield spots
• Short stature

Causes of Down Syndrome:
Typically, human cells contain 23 pairs of chromosomes. Down syndrome occurs due to abnormal division of chromosome 21, resulting in an extra copy in some or all cells. In the most common type of Down syndrome, called trisomy 21, the condition arises randomly and is not inherited. However, in cases involving translocation or mosaicism, hereditary factors may be involved and should be considered.

Role of Occupational Therapy in Down Syndrome:
Occupational therapists can assist individuals with Down syndrome by breaking tasks into manageable steps and teaching them how to complete each one progressively. They may also recommend aids and adaptations to help with daily tasks. Additionally, occupational therapists collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team to help individuals with Down syndrome gain independence as they grow older.

Role of Physical Therapy in Down Syndrome:
Physical therapists help children and adults with Down syndrome improve various developmental skills, such as:

• Strength
• Balance, coordination, and postural control
• Overall physical fitness

Both therapies aim to enhance the individual’s ability to lead a more independent and active life.

At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

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New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1  Resource 2  

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy 

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.