Five basic elements practically every baby born with Trisomy 21 (T21 or Down syndrome) faces: |
| 1. | Sleep Apnea: 97% of the overall T21 population diagnosed with sleep apnea and 85% of children tested positively under the age of five. Earlier and frequent testing can diagnose the condition, identify the source and resolve it. |
| 2. | Hypotonia (low muscle tone throughout the body): low muscle tone makes movement difficult for large and fine motor groups in the body. Physical therapy from the earliest weeks of life changes the path of a life for profoundly higher function. |
| 3. | Poor Mouth Control: due to low muscle tone, poor tongue and mouth control prohibits a person from breathing, eating or speaking properly. Therapy engaged in the first year of life can reposition the tongue, build oral strength and correct the swallow pattern. |
| 4. | Low Sensory Awareness: also due to low muscle tone, low awareness of the surface of the skin creates an obstacle for motor/movement planning. Waking up the surface of the skin is achievable through stimulation, massage and occupational therapy techniques. |
| 5. | Nutritional Deficits: born with a deficiency in Vitamin E and Zinc, the T21 population needs to tackle replenishment through diet/supplement. Vitamin E is a nutrient known to boost brain, eye and skin health. Zinc has been associated with a range of influence from enhancement of learning to affecting sleep disorders. |
