In addition to an assessment of architectural barriers, the need for adapted physical education, physical and occupational therapies, personal aides, assistive devices, and transportation should be considered. School personnel should be trained to deal with fractures or other medical emergencies that may occur at school. These issues are best addressed by a team of people involved in the child' s education, including parents, teachers, adapted physical education specialists, special education specialists, therapists, the school nurse, and, when appropriate, the child. A video and booklet showing how to integrate children into school activities, including physical education classes, are available from the OI Foundation. A OI is treated primarily by managing fractures and promoting independence and mobility.
Prolonged immobility can lead to muscle loss, weakness, and more fractures.
Many orthopedists prefer to treat fractures with short-term immobilization in lightweight casts, splints, or braces to allow some movement as soon as possible after the fracture. Physical therapy is appropriate for infants and children who have muscle weakness or motor skill delay when compared with same-age peers. Occupational therapy can help your child develop age-appropriate, fine motor skills and identify adaptive equipment that will allow your child as much independence as possible in daily living. As a child with OI grows older, he or she will benefit from continued physical activity, such as adapted physical education and safe exercise. Unfortunately, most of these substances have not been proven effective.