Current Trends in Pediatric Physical Therapy Practice for Children With Down Syndrome

Current Trends for Children With Spina Bifida: A Survey of Pediatric Physical Therapists

PURPOSE

To describe contemporary physical therapy practice and management of children with spina bifida (SB) in the context of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework.

METHODS

A descriptive, cross-sectional electronic survey was sent to US pediatric physical therapy clinics and posted in the American Physical Therapy Association Pediatrics newsletter. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Codes were compared, refined, and condensed into categories.

RESULTS

A total of 163 participants were included. Most assessments evaluated the ICF Activity component. Most frequently reported ICF components: impairments = decreased strength (17.9%), activity limitations = limited walking (22.5%), and participation restrictions = restricted socializing/playing with peers or siblings (22.6%). The most prevalent intervention was strength training.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical therapists (PTs) in the United States are performing assessments and interventions supported by available evidence; however, knowledge translation and more research are needed to support best practices in PT management of children with SB.

Integrated Physiotherapeutic Intervention for Rehabilitation of a Patient With Intellectual Disabilities: A Case Report

Intellectual disabilities (ID) encompass a broad spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders marked by impairments in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. Accessing and benefiting from rehabilitation services pose significant challenges for individuals within this population. In this case study, the rehabilitation journey of a 44-year-old man with ID, emphasizes the tailored approach to his rehabilitation program. The primary objectives of the program were to augment the patient's functional capabilities, foster independence, and enhance his overall quality of life. The case highlights the significance of personalized, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies intricately tailored to address the distinct requirements of individuals with ID. The case study delineates a comprehensive rehabilitation regimen integrating physical therapy to address the multifaceted needs of individuals with varying degrees of disability. This inclusive approach represents a paradigm shift toward a multidisciplinary (physiotherapy along with general medical care, special education, vocational training, and community-based interventions) person-centered model of care. Through addressing the varied needs of individuals with ID, the rehabilitation plan endeavors to empower them to lead enriching, self-directed lives within their communities, thereby unlocking their complete potential. This case study stands as evidence of the profound impact of customized rehabilitation interventions in cultivating inclusivity and optimizing the well-being of individuals with ID.

Informing Clinical Practice Guidelines for Children and Youth With Down Syndrome: A Survey of Key Partners

PURPOSE

The purpose of this work was to describe input from key partners to inform the scope and priorities for a clinical practice guideline (CPG) pertaining to physical therapy services provided to children and youth with Down syndrome (DS).

METHODS

A 68-item survey was completed by interventionists and parents (n = 296) of children and youth with DS.

RESULTS

The most prevalent physical therapy interventions currently being performed included tummy time, postural control activities, activity-based interventions, and play-based interventions. Key partners agreed on the importance of specific clinical outcomes, needing guidance on frequency and dosage of interventions, common barriers to physical therapy intervention, and needing information for discharge criteria in a future CPG.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this survey have given the CPG committee the necessary information to inform the CPG process for children and youth with DS.