Walking issues

[Guest guest]

I posted a few weeks ago about Sam's walking. I might seem like an

impatient Mom to some, but this is not the case here. I am wondering

if any one else has had a similar presentation with learning to

walk.

Sam's gross development has always lagged behind speech and

communication. That's clear with him. His typicallly developing

sisters came that way too. Here is what is happening, the PT asked

if anyone else has experienced this.

1. Sam started creeping on all fours last summer. He does this well,

but never for long periods of time, stops and takes frequent breaks.

2. He took his first series of step last Nov/Dec. Five steps toward

an interesting object. His knees and hips are fixed (locked) and

initiating the first step is very difficult for him. He can stop and

stand for long periods of time. He is able to stand up in the middle

of the floor.

3. He shows no signs of discomfort, shortness of breath or fatigue.

4. We notice that his legs and feet are sometimes blue to bluish

purple. Again, no signs of discomfort.

% we have successfully tricked him into walking several times -

pulling th table away when is distracted, putting a basketball in his

hands and moving the basket away... I have video of him walking 7-9

steps in a row. Yet he has NEVER self initiated walking.

6. He will cruise the sofa, pull up on things. He can walk for short

distances with a walker. or holding a hand but ends it quickly.

7. The kicker is that he watched other kids walk and run and we can

SEE that he wants to do it too! IT is not just a lack of

desire/motivation.

The PT works in our DS clinic and feels that Sam's presentation is

different than any other he has seen.

I really want to know if anyone else has had a similar presentation

to this. Was there a structural reason? Our PT does not feel

anything out of the ordinary in his hips. Thyroid check is due this

month. I am considering seeing an orthopod if only to

hear " everything is fine " .

Sorry for the long post, just when we first get back from PT is is

all so fresh in my head.

Thanks,

Barb - Mom to Sam 3(ds) 8 and 10. All big talkers much to

the discontent of their quiet father : 0