Treatment Options For Rett Syndrome

Rett syndrome occurs after a baby is born. It’s a neurological disorder that happens right after birth and is primarily seen in girls. Rett syndrome is caused by a mutation of the X chromosome on the MECP2 gene. The syndrome causes difficulty in regards to cognitive functioning, learning, sensory, autonomic, emotions, and motor functions. A baby or small child with this disorder have trouble with sensations, mood, heart function, breathing, and eating. The baby appears to normally develop until they reach six to eighteen months of age. At that point, their development slows and stagnates. A blood test indicates when a baby has Rett syndrome. The disorder remains not degenerative. Learn how Rett syndrome can be treated now.

Physical Therapy

Because a child with Rett syndrome has problems with movement, physical therapy remains a top priority for their treatment. Children with Rett syndrome tend to lose the intentional use of their hands. The severity of Rett syndrome physical problems differs widely amongst children with the syndrome, so each physiotherapy session needs to be specifically designed for the child’s individual needs. A child with this syndrome needs help and practice doing simple tasks like feeding themselves and washing their hands. Once the affected child gains the appropriate physical skills, they don’t lose them as long as the skills remain used routinely.

Other body movement issues are also dealt with during physiotherapy sessions, so the child can gain strength and be the strongest person possible. The key to a child getting the most from their physical therapy is motivation and practice with a professional’s guidance. This course of treatment also prevents health problems such as pain, problems moving intentionally, balance, muscle tightness and stiffness, and keeping the muscles strong enough to work appropriately.

Keep reading for more tips on treating Rett syndrome.