While dwarfism is not a disease and cannot be ‘cured’, many of the effects it has on the body can be treated or identified in their early stages. If pain is experienced from joint, nerve or bone trauma, physical therapy and pain medication can ease the suffering. Braces and other orthotic devices can also help to take pressure off of areas that are causing discomfort, and can also help with those who have trouble walking or manoeuvring around.
In early life, growth can be encouraged with hormone injections and physical therapy, and in later life there are a number of surgical procedures which can improve the condition of legs, hips, and the spine. Limb-lengthening surgery can also be conducted, as can cosmetic surgery if the face or skull is effected. If surgery is an undesirable option, simple shoe-lifts (which give the effect of extra height) can be used.
It is crucial that potential psycho-social problems are also treated from an early age should they exhibit themselves. It is important that the child understands that dwarfism is a condition, not a disease, and that with the proper care they can expect to live a long and fulfilling life. Moreover, those who share their lives with those diagnosed with dwarfism – such as family members, friends, teachers, employers, colleagues, and so forth – should be encouraged to learn about the condition and see it for what it is – a physical trait, not dissimilar to someone’s inherited skin tone, eye colour, or shoe size.
In early life, growth can be encouraged with hormone injections and physical therapy, and in later life there are a number of surgical procedures which can improve the condition of legs, hips, and the spine. Limb-lengthening surgery can also be conducted, as can cosmetic surgery if the face or skull is effected. If surgery is an undesirable option, simple shoe-lifts (which give the effect of extra height) can be used.
It is crucial that potential psycho-social problems are also treated from an early age should they exhibit themselves. It is important that the child understands that dwarfism is a condition, not a disease, and that with the proper care they can expect to live a long and fulfilling life. Moreover, those who share their lives with those diagnosed with dwarfism – such as family members, friends, teachers, employers, colleagues, and so forth – should be encouraged to learn about the condition and see it for what it is – a physical trait, not dissimilar to someone’s inherited skin tone, eye colour, or shoe size.