Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal disorder that randomly affects about one out of every 2,000 girls. People with Turner syndrome often have visual-spatial disorders, as well as fine motor skills and coordination problems. All of these issues can be effectively improved upon by working with a physical therapist at Jeevam Therapy.

What is Turner Syndrome?

Turner syndrome results when a girl is born with only one X chromosome at birth, rather than two. Scientists have never been able to determine a specific cause for the syndrome. There are two forms of the syndrome:

• Classic Turner Syndrome: One X chromosome is completely missing
• Mosaic Turner Syndrome: One X chromosome is partially missing or abnormal

Symptoms of Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome is sometimes identified during pregnancy, if an ultrasound uncovers heart or kidney problems. In most cases, the syndrome is identified during childhood. Almost all girls with the syndrome have a short stature and underdeveloped ovaries, which will result in sexual infertility and a lack of monthly periods. If the condition is not diagnosed while the child is in the womb, it often goes unnoticed until later in childhood, when the girl fails to begin developing sex characteristics between the age of 8 and 14. 

How Physical Therapy Can Help Turner Syndrome

Girls with Turner syndrome face many physical challenges throughout their life due to the condition. Physical therapy is one of the treatment modalities that has been shown to be highly effective in treating some of the associated symptoms of Turner Syndrome. As we mentioned earlier, girls with Turner syndrome often struggle with visual-spatial disorders, motor skills development and coordination.

Through regular appointments with a physical therapist at Jeevam Therapy, a girl with Turner Syndrome will be taught the body mechanics skills associated with these issues. Girls with Turner syndrome frequently suffer from low self esteem and depression. The victories they achieve in physical therapy sessions, as well as the caring environment at Jeevam Therapy, will help them to grow self confident as we work with them to overcome these challenges.

We Are Here for You

Jeevam Therapy has facilities in  Edison and Paramus, NJ. We specialize in physical therapy for children with rare disorders and other special needs. If your daughter has been diagnosed with Turner syndrome, contact our office to learn more about how physical therapy can be used to help manage the condition.