May 9, 2007
Best Shoes to fit over AFO’s (Ankle-Foot Orthoses)
You don’t have to spend a ton of money on expensive shoes to fit over AFO’s. Many Physical Therapist will recommend get a wide width shoe from Payless or Wal-Mart. The ankle support is there in the AFO so the shoe is the to prevent slippage and for “style” . If you have a choice- look for mesh rather than leather- the leather will stretch out but the mesh will accommodate the AFO better.
Whether you choose laces, velcro or open back is a personal choice.
You can buy specially made shoes for AFO’s- from Keeping Pace ( which are quite cute) or Hatchback Footwear http://www.hatchbacksfootwear.com/index.htm , which are known for their ease of use BUT many kids find them to be on the heavy side.
Other suggestions for a shoe that works well with AFO’s-
http://www.biteshoes.com/ : These are quite funky and trendy looking- older kids will LOVE them.
New Balance : again buy these in wide width.
Stride Rite
K-Swiss
Adidas
Have you had particular luck with a shoe that fits well over your child’s AFO? Please share !
May 7, 2007
Cerebral Palsy: Great Summer Camp near Boston- Subsidized Summer Camp
Pine Tree Camp is located in Rome, Maine (about 3 hours drive from Boston), and it is a wonderful camp for kids with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. They have 6 to 10 sessions over the summer.
They have well trained camp counselors that help the kids in every aspect, including dressing and eating. The camp is also integrated; accepting campers with AND without disabilities.
From their website:
Established in 1945, Pine Tree Camp offers Maine children and adults with disabilities an extraordinary summer camp experience. The 280-acre camp is located on North Pond in Rome, Maine. The facility is fully adapted to meet the special needs of campers. The barrier-free setting and commitment of our staff allow campers to fully participate in activities that normally aren’t available to them including swimming, fishing, boating, outdoor games, kayaking, arts and crafts and even camping in a tent under the stars.
Contact Info:
May through September
114 Pine Tree Camp Road
Rome, ME 04963
(207) 397-2141 (voice)
(207) 397-4101 (voice)
(207) 212-8599 (cell)
(207) 397-5324 (fax)
http://www.pinetreesociety.org/camp.asp
There is a sliding scale for camping fees. The camp holds several fundraisers throughout the year.
The camp does fill up fast. Applications are accepted in January. If you are unable to get in, put your name on the waiting list.
May 5, 2007
Immunizations and Pregnancy
An infection case of rubella ( measles) during pregnancy can result in your baby having cerebral palsy. Being immunized can reduce the risks. Not sure if you should be immunized? Is thimerosal in vaccine “safe” ?
Read the latest research on immunization, vaccines, thimerosal and pregnancy .
Did your doctor advise you of risks of not being immunized ? Did your baby develop cerebral palsy as a result of rubella (measles) ?
Your child Did you have a baby prematurely? Did you have a high risk pregnancy? Were their complications during your baby’s delivery? Are you concerned about the health risk that may be facing your child?
Your child may be eligible for lifetime benefits or Benefits4life. please
Contact 4MyChild Live CareCenter Specialists to answer any question about your child’s health and eligiblitiy.
May 3, 2007
Botox Helps Boy To Walk
Although controversial, Botox therapy continues to make the news as a viable treatment for Cerebral Palsy.
From the BBC’s website:
Botox injection helps boy to walk
Oliver was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
A four-year-old boy who was told he would never walk unaided has taken his first steps just a month after being given a revolutionary treatment.
Oliver Smith from Rothwell, Northants, had his muscles injected with botox in April to help him walk.
Oliver was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was 18 months old and had only ever been able to walk with the help of splints and walking sticks.
His mother Sarah, 24, said: “He looked like the cat that got the cream.”
She said: “It was unbelievable, there was no warning. It was not prompted, he just let go and did it.”
He has started to move between equipment and furniture at school without sticks which is great.
Sarah Smith
Oliver suffers from spasms which cause the muscles in his legs to become tight and make walking difficult.
The botox injections work by relaxing the tendons in his calves, allowing him to put his feet flat on the ground.
To read entire article please visit: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/northamptonshire/6617743.stm
