Down syndrome

Question 1

down syndrome appearance

At least know 8

Answer 1

Flat-bridged nose
• Looseness of joints
• Lack of muscle tone during infancy
• Palmer crease (a normal groove across the palm of the hand)
• Protruded abdomen
• Short fingers, limbs, and neck
• Short stature
• Slanting, almond-shaped eyes
• Small oral cavity; enlarged or protruding tongue
• Small scull
• Structural abnormalities of the lungs, nasal passages, airways and chest walls could
affect breathing in strenuous exercise
• Substantial delays in reflex integration
• Tendency to be overweight

Question 2

Down syndrome sypmtoms

Answer 2

Motor problems
• Decreased ability in kinesthetic awareness (the ability to obtain information regarding
the position and movement of the body in space)
• Significant decreases in static and dynamic balance

• Heart disease; 40 to 60% of infants with DS have significant congenital heart disease
• Susceptibility to pulmonary problems

Poor eyesight 
•strabismus- crosseyed
myopia- nearsightedness 
Constant movement of the eyeball 
Motor problems are intensified by visual disorders

Poor hearing
• Maybe auditory perceptual deficits – an inability to locate sound or distinguish
between two sounds
• Hearing loss results in difficulty in learning to speak and follow instructions

Question 3

Down syndrome interventions

at least know 8

Answer 3

-Adapt cardiovascular activities.
• Adapt activities involving movement on uneven surfaces.
• Adapt activities involving agility and changing directions.
• An alternative method of communication may be necessary.
• Avoid activities that place the neck in extreme flexion, such as tumbling, in
individuals who test positive for AAI.
• Check medical records and follow written guidelines established by the physician.
• Coordinate with medical community to prevent contraindications.
• Discourage hyperflexible postures.
• Determine cause of problem with other health professionals.
• Encourage muscular strengthening especially around joints.
• Incorporate family into solution.
• Proper nutrition and weight control should be stressed.
• Provide calorie burning activity.
• Stress personal care (i.e., wearing weather appropriate clothing, getting enough to
drink) and hygiene (washing hands and face frequently).
• Stress activities like sitting, crawling, walking, and moving through various positions
to increase muscle strength.
• Teach them to move or touch particular body part.
• Utilize visual demonstrations.
• Utilize tactile demonstrations. French, R. (1997 – 2004)
• Use visual cues or stimulate visual tracking and acuity.
• Use auditory cues or require listening to complete.

Question 4

ATLANTOAXIAL INSTABILITY (AAI)

what is it?
signs and symptoms?
Precautions

Answer 4

ATLANTOAXIAL INSTABILITY (AAI):
Atlantoaxial Instability (AAI), also referred to as atlantoaxial subluxation, is a condition
where there is increased mobility or movement between the first and second cervical
vertebrae (segments of the spine in the neck). Various researchers have estimated that this
condition occurs in 15% of children with Down syndrome.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF AAI:
• Changes in bowel or bladder function
• Difficulty walking
• Weakness of any extremities
• Changes in neck posturing, neck pain, or limitations of neck movement
• Progressive clumsiness and loss of coordination
• Hypersensitivity
• Extensor plantar responses (abnormalities detected in the neurological examinations)

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES:
• Have x-rays on school file prior to participation in physical activity.
• Check medical files, speak with parents, and adhere to physician’s recommendations.
• Restrict participation in gymnastics, diving, butterfly stroke in swimming, high jump,
soccer, and any warm-up exercises that places pressure on the muscles of the neck