Mason’s physical therapist came over today to see the progress he’s made in the last month. He was worn out by the end of the session! 
Mason has made big strides in this area. With trunk support he keeps his head steady for long periods of time. He is able to track things and not drop his head as he’s turning. He is still weaker on the right side, which you can see because when he tracks something to the right his head tilts back just a bit, engaging extensors to compensate for the weak neck muscles. (Extensors are the muscles for lifting a head up while on his tummy, not the muscles for turning side to side.)
Neck Flexibility
Mason still has a bit of work to loosen up turning to his right side but we’ve made some progress. He’s not nearly as tight. We’ll keep working on stretching his head/neck this month.
Leg Flexibility (Knees and Hips)
Slow and steady seems to be the theme here. We’re able to straighten his knees and hips closer to a full extension than a month ago. This progress is slow because Mason does not extend his legs himself due to being a parapalegic - all the work has to be done by my husband and I. We’ll get there.
Our Physical Therapy Goals for the Next Month
- Begin shifting our hands lower on his trunk so he develops the next set of muscles while upright and maintaining his head.
- Continue lots of tummy time with a new task – we’re to help support him by holding his upper arms (propping him on his forearms), our job being to keep his arms from sliding out from under him. With this support Mason is able to better lift his head and work out those neck muscles.
- Keep stretching those legs.
- Try the Bumbo seat in a few weeks to see how his trunk control is progressing.
Hey Tristan, I love reading your updates on your cutey boy Mason! I have one thought, is have you thought of taking him to a pediatric chiropractor. They too can make sure his spine is aligning correctly and it will help with his progress. My chiropractor also adjusts fingers, toes, and knees. He helped my mom recover from foot surgery by adjusting her toes. He helped two of my children walk (they were delayed) and helped one of the children's feet turn back toward normal, it was turning outwards and it all stemmed from him having very tight hips. I am sure you don't need more appointments, but just thought I throw that out there for ya! My chiro is trained in the Gonstead method of chiropratory (is that a word :) )
ReplyDeleteI love reading the updates on Mason! My daughter Halle is 6 weeks old tomorrow, so it gives me some foresight in to what we might expect. I know all kids are different, of course! I appreciate your positive attitude, and I always think "if she can do it, so can I". I am also a homeschooling mom (3 older siblings for Halle. Thank you for taking the time to blog and post pictures, it has been very educational and inspiring for me! Squeeze that little boy for me, will you?
ReplyDeleteYou're doing such a great job, and so is Mason!
ReplyDeletesleeping angel!
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