Prenatal diagnosis is often possible. Delivery is always accomplished by cesarean section. At present there is no specific treatment to promote growth in achondroplasia. Growth-hormone treatment seems to increase the rate of growth during the first year of treatment, but may not increase adult height. Surgery to lengthen the legs and arms of people with achondroplasia is being done on an experimental basis in a few centers in the US, but it is not a common practice because complications are frequent and the process is long and arduous.
Current therapy is directed toward preventing or treating complications of achondroplasia.
The family physician, pediatrician, or internist, with the help of specialists such as endocrinologists, geneticists, orthopedists, and neurologists, can provide affected individuals with appropriate medical and psychological support. A great deal of research is being done on achondroplasia and other growth problems in medical centers across the country. It is important for children with achondroplasia to recognize that a wide range of occupational choices exists for them and that their condition need not prevent them from leading a full and satisfying life. Both groups serve as sources of information and support, and offer opportunities for parents to meet others facing similar challenges. Each organization has close contact with medical professionals to help refer interested individuals to the experts nearest them.