Scientifically-Backed Approaches to Helping Children with Congenital Disorders
Congenital disorders refer to any condition that has been present since birth. There are many congenital disorders, each with different signs and symptoms, and their severity can vary. However, children with congenital disorders often need specialized care to ensure they thrive throughout their lives.
At Go Physical Therapy Children's Rehab Center, our team of pediatric physical, speech, and occupational therapists will work together to ensure your child receives the care they need, offering evidence-based (but fun) interventions to help your child improve motor ability, communication skills, and activities of daily living.
Request an initial consultation at our Grand Island, Hastings, Kearney or Lincoln, NE clinic to learn what we can do for your child.
Examples of Common Congenital Disorders
Cerebral Palsy
- Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions that develop due to damage in the developing brain, usually before birth. It affects movement, balance, and posture. However, people with CP often develop related conditions that impact cognitive ability, hearing, vision, or speech.
Down Syndrome
- Down syndrome develops when a child has an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to distinct physical characteristics and mild to moderate intellectual difficulties. Children with Down syndrome often struggle with low muscle tone, which can cause developmental delays as well.
Spina Bifida
- Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine. There are three types; the most common causes a sac of fluid to emerge through an opening in the baby’s back, leading to nerve damage that can affect movement in the legs and feet.
How Pediatric Therapy Can Help
In many cases, managing a congenital condition requires a multidisciplinary care team. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can all play a role in your child’s treatment, depending on what type of congenital disorder they have and their specific symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Our pediatric physical therapists will help with issues related to movement, balance, and walking ability.
- Occupational Therapy: Our pediatric occupational therapists will help with everyday skills, such as grooming, bathing, or completing chores.
- Speech Therapy: Our pediatric speech therapists can help improve speech, language, and communication skills. We can also help with swallowing difficulties.
Complex conditions require complex care. We’ll work closely with you, your child, and your child’s care team to create personalized treatment plans that suit their needs, interests, and abilities.