Downs Syndrome

Question 1

Down’s syndrome is also known as _____.

Answer 1

Trisomy 21

Question 2

What is Down’s syndrome?

Answer 2

Mental retardation that varies in degree

Question 3

Describe the facial appearance (secondary to hypoplasia) of a patient with down’s syndrome? (3)

Answer 3

1. Presence of epicanthal folds of eye
2. Flat bridge
3. Low set ears

Question 4

Patients with Down’s Syndrome of a higher incidence of ___, ____, and ____.

Answer 4

Cardiac anomalies (40%)
Leukemia
Hearing Deficits

Question 5

List 5 physical impairments associated with Down’s Syndrome.

Answer 5

1. Hypotonicity
2. Extreme Ranges (flexion/ER/abduction)
3. Joint laxity
4. Decreased antigravity strength
5. Dysgenesis of cerebellum

Question 6

What joint is typically affected by laxity in patients with Down’s syndrome?

Answer 6

Atlantoaxial joint (12-20%)

Question 7

_____ is recommended beginning at 2 years of age in patients with Down’s Syndrome to identify joint laxity.

Answer 7

X-rays

Question 8

What 2 impairments can occur secondary to dysgenesis of the cerebellum?

Answer 8

1. Impaired coordination

2. Dyskinesias

Question 9

What 3 areas will children with Down’s syndrome present with delays in?

Answer 9

1. Delayed motoric skills
2. Delayed ambulation (Aversion to weight on feet and hands)
3. Delayed speech

Question 10

What 3 motor skills are especially delayed in children with Down’s Syndrome?

Answer 10

1. Transitional movements due to excessive use of wide bases of support
2. Equilibrium reactions delayed & ineffective
3. Static more impaired than dynamic balance

Question 11

List 5 treatment considerations for Down’s Syndrome.

Answer 11

1. Vigorous movement (caution with cervical instability)
2. Encourage decreased BOS
3. Set up environment to decrease amount of verbal directions needed
4. Pair language with gestures or signs
5. Foster independence

Question 12

Treatment for Down’s Syndrome is similar to treating children with ____.

Answer 12

Hypotonic CP