Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) can cause lifelong problems for some patients with the disorder. Working with a physical therapist at Jeevam Therapy in  Edison and Paramus, NJ can help a child with OI to live a more fulfilling life, while suffering fewer of the bone fractures that often accompany the disorder. Here’s a closer look at osteogenesis imperfecta and physical therapy for parents.

What is Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)?

“Osteogenesis Imperfecta” is a term that means ‘imperfect bone formations.’ Scientists have identified 19 different variations of this genetic disorder, labeling them from Type I through Type XIX. Type I OI is the mildest form of the condition and Type II is the most severe. The remaining 17 types fall somewhere between those two in terms of severity. Researchers at the National Institutes of Health believe there are between 25,000 and 50,000 people with OI in the United States.

Symptoms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)

The list of symptoms among the 19 variations of OI is incredibly extensive. The most common characteristic of the disorder is that the person has fragile bones and will likely suffer many bone fractures over their lifetime. Babies with severe cases can suffer fractures in the womb. Every baby takes a few tumbles when they are learning to stand and walk on their own, but infants with OI tend to break bones when they fall down. Another common symptom is that the patient’s sclera (the white part of the eyes) will have a bluish or greyish tint to them.

Additional symptoms in more severe cases of OI can include:

• Short stature
• Hearing loss as they age
• Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
• Joint deformities
• Disorders involving tooth development
• Respiratory problems

How Physical Therapy Can Help with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)

OI requires lifelong management, and physical therapy is considered one of the strongest non-surgical solutions for learning to live with the condition. At Jeevam Therapy, we work with a wide range of treatment modalities to craft a unique physical therapy regimen for every patient. We strive to help patients with osteogenesis imperfecta — and their parents — to have the tools necessary to manage this fragile condition. Better balance, better posture and stronger muscle tone through physical therapy translate into fewer falls and less likelihood of fractures.

We Are Here for You

If your child has been diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, Jeevam Therapy can help. We specialize in working with children with rare genetic disorders such as OI, so that they can enjoy a better quality of life despite their condition. Click here to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist today.