Acorn Ability Clinic
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Down Syndrome and Massage Therapy

Providing Massage Therapy to Individuals with Down syndrome in HRM, Nova Scotia
A Hands on Approach

Come let me support you or your child through a gentle hands on approach!

Each person with Down syndrome is an individual and as such has differing needs.

I will work with you and/or your child to provide a hands on intervention aimed at decreasing muscle hypotonicity and increasing muscle tone.  This encourages an increase in motor function which in turn may improve the ability to perform skills of daily living.   I will also work towards addressing any secondary complaints such as sporting injuries, strains, sprains, muscle tension, stress, headaches, constipation and bowel issues, etc.    
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Research Shows:

Massage Therapy can Increase: 
  • Fine and Gross Motor Function
  • Muscle Tone
​Massage Therapy can Decrease:​
  • Limb Hypotonicity
What does this effect? 
  • Improved Motor Skills and Muscle Tone have a positive effect on:
    • Self-Care 
    • Mobility
    • Social Function (i.e. Communication and Social Skills)
  • In Fact, according to research, the functional status of children with Down syndrome is better predicted by their motor abilities than their mental ability. 
For Scholarly Articles Check out the Reference Section Below

Hernandez‐Reif, M., Field, T., Largie, S., Mora, D., Bornstein, J., & Waldman, R. (2006). Children with Down syndrome improved in motor functioning and muscle tone following massage therapy. Early Child Development and Care, 176(3-4), 395-410. doi:10.1080/03004430500105233
  • To read this article CLICK HERE

​Volman, V., Visser, J., & Lensvelt-Mulders, J. (2007). Functional status in 5 to 7-year-old children with Down syndrome in relation to motor ability and performance mental ability. Disability and Rehabilitation, 29(1).
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  • Osteopathy
  • Special Needs Services
  • Book an Appointment
  • Contact
  • Blog