EARLY INTERVENTION

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 EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

As we know the brain elasticity is at its maximum till 6 years of age. Sooner the intervention program starts better would be the outcome. The early intervention program mainly includes;

1.    Physiotherapy: The passive physiotherapy can be started within first 7-10 days of life (Make sure to rule out any medical or other limiting factors). PT is aimed at achieving motor milestones.

2.    Occupational Therapy: OT is all about strengthening smaller muscles of hands. (Can refer the YouTube playlist of Dr. Nina)

3.    Speech therapy: ST mainly involves oromotor exercises. There are simple sensory tools & talking tools available that facilitates development of speech. (Can refer the blog on speech in the same series of blogs)

4.    Sensory integration: SI is utmost important but unknown to most of the therapist. We all learn through our senses. Our senses connect us with the world around. Sensory integration program is designed to activate all seven senses. Sense of Vision, Auditory, Olfactory, Touch, Taste, Body balance & Body awareness. (Can refer the blog on Sensory Integration in the same series of blogs)

5.    Foot Arch: As Down Syndrome is associated with flat foot informing the parents about wearing a medial foot arch is very important. (Can refer the blog on foot arch in the same series of blogs)

Parents are the best therapists & early intervention program can be effectively managed by parents. We just need to empower them & provide them with the correct set of information. There are many advantages of home-based early intervention program. Therapist can guide them and can prepare an individualized therapy plan where parents are instructed to see the therapist at regular intervals.

 

 

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