Paramedical Services for Angelman Syndrome

Paramedical services are of paramount importance for patients with chronic and complex neurological disorders like Angelman syndrome.

Here is information about paramedical services and its various fields, some of which can help in managing disease symptoms and improving patients’ quality of life.

What are paramedical services?

Paramedical services, sometimes called allied health services, are those provided by professionals other than doctors, nurses, and dentists. They usually focus on easing symptoms and increasing life quality. Healthcare assistants, therapists, technicians, counselors, and dietitians may offer these services.

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy can help your child with daily life skills affected by the disease: motor function, visual perception, and sensory awareness. Therapists can also work with your child to help them with self-care activities that may allow them a greater degree of independence.

Physiotherapy

Your child may have difficulty walking and controlling their movements. Physiotherapy can provide safe exercises to help them develop the strength and muscle control necessary for these skills, and improve their mobility.

Physiotherapists can also train you on how to help your child with select exercises that can be done at the home.

Speech therapy

Problems with speech and communication are common in children with Angelman syndrome, with many being nonverbal or limited to a small set of spoken words. Speech therapy can help teach your child how to communicate their needs better, including in ways that do not require a verbal exchange. Communication could be through the use of natural gestures, or communication aids such as symbol boards or high tech tools that speak for them.

Dietary support

Children with Angelman syndrome have a tendency to become obese, due to predisposition and eating habits affected by their disease. A dietician may be able to recommend healthy meals or snacks to keep them at a good weight.

A dietician may also propose a special diet to help with seizures, which are very common in children with Angelman syndrome.

Behavioral therapy

Behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, mouthing objects, aggression, and repetitive or other autism-like behaviors are known with Angelman syndrome. A behavioral therapist can work with your child to help change such behavior. They can also help you with learning how to determine the likely cause of these behaviors, such as boredom, frustration, or pain, so that you might better prevent or minimize them.

Last updated: Feb. 8, 2021

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Angelman Syndrome News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.