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Down Syndrome Disorder

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The Midbrain
More detailed information on the functional areas of the Midbrain.

The Cortex
More detailed information on the functional areas of the Cortex.

Down Syndrome  Disorder Testimonial Read how FHC has helped other children

boyleavesBasically, Down syndrome disorder is a congenital defect where a baby is born with an extra Chromosome 21 which changes how the body and brain develops. Although there are commonalities in their physical appearance and mental abilities, symptoms in those with Down syndrome can run the gamut of mild to severe.

However, Down syndrome generally results in a slower mental and physical development than normal. Mental retardation ranging from mild to moderate is also a result of this extra chromosome 21.

Physical signs of Down syndrome include:

  • a flat face
  • slanted eyes
  • a short neck, and
  • abnormally shaped ears.
  • Other physical signs, may be:

  • a deep crease in the palm of the hand
  • white spots on the iris of the eyes
  • poor muscle tone,
  • loose ligaments
  • proportionately small hands and feet.
  • Unfortunately, there are also a number of health concerns common with Down syndrome, including

  • congenital heart disease
  • hearing and eye problems
  • gastrointestinal problems
  • thyroid dysfunction, and
  • dementia
  • As the parent of a Down syndrome child you have to believe that your child can live a fruitful and productive life. At The Family Hope Center we not only believe that, but we know that for a fact. With the proper therapy program and family commitment, we’ve seen Down syndrome children make progress far beyond that ever expected.

    The staff at The Family Hope Center will perform a complete evaluation of your child’s abilities, including physical, intellectual and social. Based on this comprehensive evaluation a treatment program will be designed specifically for your child. This program will focus on supporting current abilities and encouraging the development of new functions, following the same developmental pathways a normal child would experience. However, this program accelerates the process thru consistent and focused stimulation.

    At The Family Hope Center we understand the two areas of the brain that are primarily compromised in Down syndrome are the midbrain and cortical areas. As these areas control speech, understanding, vision and manual function, the damage results in problems with hearing, vision, sensation and physical coordination. By targeting the midbrain, the basic organization improves which then helps the higher cortical levels to also improve.

    At the same time, the therapy targets the sensory pathways, bringing about normal development in sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing. Once those areas have been developed, we then begin to focus on the overall development of mobility, speech and manual dexterity, as well as other skills that are also dependant upon these neural pathways functioning properly.

    One of the therapies that we employ increases the oxygen delivery to the whole brain. Oxygen has been proven to contribute to the overall health and development of the brain. This oxygen therapy accelerates the healing and restoration of brain function. In addition, we use cranial sacral therapy to ensure this mechanism is functioning to its full potential. Failure to address this area would result in significantly slower progress and improvement.

    One of the most important factors in a successful therapy program for your Down syndrome disorder child is you. While at The Family Hope Center, you will be given the training and tools you need to administer and adjust these therapies at home. You know your child best, and with our support, you can be the best therapist your child could have. This collaboration has proven successful thousands of times, and between you, your child and The Family Hope Center, your child can have a future that at one point seemed impossible. What we can do for you and your special needs child -  Down Syndrome >

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    "What a blessing, and delight to have met such a wonderful team!" Cher Kessel, Ohio