I have my own story, which many other families share. From the beginning, I was concerned about his physical development. When my son was finally diagnosed, he was referred for immediate physical and occupational therapy, so he could learn how to use his body more effectively. Without this early intervention, I don't believe he would now be playing basketball or baseball, walking with only a slight limp, or have total use of his left hand. In fact, my son would probably have little knowledge of how to use the left side of his body, or be aware that it existed.
Physical therapy is a positive, hopeful experience for both parents and children.
The early years, the formative years where intervention is so critical, have been lost. A few years ago, your column addressed early detection for children with developmental concerns. The organization that published this information was Pathways Awareness Foundation. Although not all body-movement disorders turn out to be cerebral palsy, physical therapy can still be helpful, and early intervention can make a huge difference, whether the case is mild or severe. As your letter proves, not all doctors are as well-informed as they should be.