Down’s Syndrome
The word syndrome means a collection of signs or characteristics. The name Down comes from Dr John Langdon Down, who first described the condition in 1866.In 1959 Professor Lejeune proved that Down's Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome.
What we treat
Orthotic Consultation can help with posture and/or ambulation with correct footwear, corrective insoles, and many lower limb supports. Our qualified clinical team can arrange these services.
About Down's Syndrome
There are more differences between people with Down’s Syndrome than similarities. They will have many of their families’ distinctive characteristics, resemble their siblings, and have individual characteristics; however, they will have physical features shared by others with Down’s Syndrome.
They will have more significant learning difficulties than the majority of people the same age.
Types of Down's Syndrome
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Type-1
There are three different types of Down’s Syndrome. Ninety-five per cent of people with Down’s Syndrome have the type known as standard trisomy 21. This type of Down’s Syndrome is always an accident of nature, and it can happen to anyone; why it occurs is unknown.
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Type-2
Approximately one in 100 people have the second type of Down’s syndrome. They inherit the condition from either of their parents because of a translocation genetic anomaly.
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Type-3
The third type of Down’s syndrome, also rare, is Mosaic Down’s Syndrome, in which an extra chromosome 21 appears in only some of the cells.
Questions
What are the causes of Down's Syndrome?
Down’s Syndrome originates in the genes. Every cell contains several chromosomes, and these tiny particles carry the blueprint for our inherited characteristics. These particles are the blueprint for all the characteristics that we inherit. Normally there are 46 chromosomes in every cell; half come from each parent. The person with Down’s Syndrome has an extra chromosome 21 – making 47, disrupting the developing baby’s growth.
This extra chromosome can come from either parent and is present because of a genetic accident when the egg or the sperm is made or during the initial cell division following conception.
What are the features of Down's Syndrome?
The features include:
- Eyes that slant upwards and outwards. They often have a fold of skin that runs vertically between the two lids at the inner corner of the eye (the ‘epicanthic fold’).
- A head that is relatively flat at the back with a low hairline and ill-defined at the nape of the neck, often with rather loose skin in this area.
- A face that appears somewhat flat with a flat nasal bridge.
- The mouth cavity is slightly smaller than average, and the tongue is larger. The child’s tongue may thus protrude, a habit that can be stopped with teaching.
- Broad hands, with short fingers and a little finger that curves inwards. The palm may have only one crease across it.
- A deep cleft between the first and second toe extends as a long crease on the side of the foot.
- Reduced muscle tone, which results in floppiness (hypotonia). This often improves spontaneously as the child gets older, but some are left with a low tone posture, which may lead to normal Orthopaedic conditions later in life in the lower limbs, e.g. osteoarthritis.
- A below-average weight and length at birth.
It is essential to point out that any of these features can occur in people who do not have Down’s Syndrome. For example, 4%-5% of children who do not have Down’s Syndrome have a single crease across their palm; 6%-8% of children without Down’s Syndrome display epicanthic folds; and 25%-50% of people who do not have Down’s Syndrome have slanted eyes, flat back of the head, small ears and flat nasal bridge.
HOW MOVE ME HELPS
How we support Down's Syndrome
Our clinicians fit orthoses and supports matched to your symptoms, activity level and goals.
Book an orthotic consultation- Clinical assessment Gait and function reviewed in clinic
- Orthotic fitting Ready-to-wear or custom devices
- Follow-up care Adjustments as your needs change
- Footwear advice Shoes that work with your supports
- Product options Order replacements when you need them
- Referral support We work with your care team
Treatment areas
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We support children's orthoses needs with our range of Paediatrics orthoses that can be custom-made or ready-to-wear solutions.
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Footwear is suitable for a range of needs to support you, with various options from ready-to-wear to custom-made, all perfectly suited to your particular needs.
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We have a range of orthoses available for Head, Neck and Spine support. Our orthotists and technicians will collaborate to build you the best orthosis to suit your individual needs.