Comprehensive Support for Individuals with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Supports Individuals with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome

What is Cornelia de Lange Syndrome?

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) is a rare genetic condition that affects physical, cognitive, and emotional development. It is caused by mutations in genes such as NIPBL, SMC1A, and SMC3. Symptoms can vary in severity but often include:

• Distinctive facial features such as arched eyebrows and a small nose.

• Growth delays, including short stature.

• Intellectual disability and developmental delays.

• Limb differences, such as missing fingers or toes.

• Behavioral challenges, including autism-like traits or self-injurious behaviors.

• Gastrointestinal and feeding difficulties.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Physiotherapy

• Develop strength and mobility to address muscle tone issues and improve balance.

• Assist with gross motor skills, enabling participation in physical activities.

• Provide exercises to address joint stiffness or orthopedic challenges.

Occupational Therapy

• Support fine motor development for tasks such as handwriting, dressing, or using utensils.

• Facilitate sensory integration strategies for individuals with heightened sensory sensitivities.

• Tailor interventions for activities of daily living to promote greater independence.

Speech Therapy

• Assist with communication challenges, including delayed speech and language skills.

• Support feeding and swallowing issues using specialized strategies.

• Introduce augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools where needed.

Exercise Physiology

• Offer individualized fitness plans to enhance physical health and reduce fatigue.

• Encourage participation in physical activities that build strength and confidence.

• Focus on exercises that accommodate specific physical challenges or limitations.

Specialized Facilities

• Sensory Room: A calming or stimulating environment tailored to meet sensory needs.

• Kids Therapy Gym: Engaging equipment like trampolines and swings to encourage movement and coordination.

• Rehabilitation Gym: Customized spaces for targeted strength and functional training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes Cornelia de Lange Syndrome?

CdLS is caused by mutations in genes such as NIPBL, SMC1A, and others involved in regulating developmental processes.

Can therapy help with behavioral challenges?

Yes, therapies like occupational therapy and speech therapy can address sensory processing issues and communication barriers, often reducing behavioral difficulties.

Is the care multidisciplinary?

Absolutely. Our collaborative team ensures that all aspects of development—physical, cognitive, and emotional—are addressed.

Do you accept NDIS participants?

Yes, we are an NDIS provider and help families navigate funding and services.

Contact Us

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we are dedicated to helping individuals with Cornelia de Lange Syndromeachieve their best possible outcomes. Visit www.palmsphysiotherapy.com.au to book an appointment or learn more about our services. Together, we can make progress towards independence and improved quality of life.