At last a referal for dd1 to OT for low muscle tone/dyspraxia

[Marne]

Just been to dd1's parents evening and its the first time i havn't felt like people are thinking dd1's problems are all in my head.

I have taken her to the GP twice and the HV with concerns about her poor muscle tones, she struggles to run, can't open doors and can not pedal a bike.

Dd1's teacher said her Aspergers is now showing more than last year and it is more noticable that she is struggling pysiclly, she is going to get a referal from the school nurse as she thinks dd1 has low muscle tone (but doesn't think its dyspaxia).

At least now something is being done.

Is there anything we can do with her at home to help build up her muscles?

Does she like swimming as it is gentle and not weight bearing? For hands could you get some squeezy balls?

Hi Marne, bouncing a ball, playing catch (even if it's difficulty) bouncing a ball off a wall going higher and higher, even if there's a lot of running and not much catching. For hands, dough/clay maybe?

I'm glad you've got your OT referral, I have found it invaluable. When the OT does her/his assessment they will be very specific and that will help a lot x

Her hands are not too bad, her writing is ok and pencil grip is good, it's mainly her arms and legs. She's not that keen on swimming (gets very anxious in water) but i might give it another go.

Would it be a good idea to get a gym ball for her to roll around on?

Our physio suggested lots of weight bearing exercise for DS2: bouncing on a mini trampoline, clambering on softplay equipment, sitting and being rolled around on an exercise ball (particularly good for building up trunk muscles and improving balance reflexes to compensate for low tone).

our physio recommended cycling (ds has a trike) swimming, trampolining and soft play/trips to the park. Relaly, jsut as much general activity as possible.

I wonder if it is worse this part of the year when they haven't been out so much and had a general lack of exercise. ds1 is getting very wobbly and falling more again.

Our OT suggested we go back to crawling to help with strengthening arms, trunk and joints generally. Wheelbarrows are good for older children. We also go swimming once a week and go to the park when it's quiet to do climbing and 'running' about. It all seems to be helping - slowly!!

There is a good website - www.skillsforaction.com which has ideas and therapy for low muscle tone.