Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy is a specialized field of therapy that places emphasis on helping individuals achieve independence and self-sufficiency. This field provides services to individuals of all ages, helping them to acquire the skills they need to function optimally in their daily lives. Through the use of various techniques and strategies, occupational therapists strive to help people improve their fine motor, sensory motor, and visual motor skills, all of which are crucial to socializing and engaging with the world around them. They work with patients to develop customized plans that are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals. Whether it’s helping a child learn to hold a pen or assisting an adult to navigate their home after an injury, occupational therapy is a highly effective means of improving quality of life for all those who seek it out.

Balance and Fine Motor:

Trisomy 18, a genetic disorder, often results in developmental delays and challenges with muscle tone in children. Given these challenges, working on fine motor skills can be particularly challenging for them. However, occupational therapists can help children with trisomy improve their fine motor skills through various techniques. 

One key element to consider is balance, which can greatly assist children in focusing on their tasks and improving their skills. Balancing helps children to develop their muscle strength, coordination and spatial awareness, which are all important factors in optimizing their fine motor skills. With the aid of an occupational therapist, children with trisomy can overcome their physical challenges and develop their fine motor skills, ultimately achieving success and reaching their full potential.

Equipment to Help Balance:

Here are some suggestions to assist with the stability needed to focus at full capacity. This type of seating is available at seating clinics or through the child’s OT/PT depending on the therapy set-up. 

  1. Powerchair – https://www.rovimobility.com/pediatrics
  2. Corner Chair- https://jenx.com/corner-seat-floor-based-seating-system/
  3. Tomato Seat – https://www.specialtomato.com/