When an infant presents with a genetic defect, the provider cannot predict what issues will get better and what will not get better in therapy.
A three-month-old presented with Williams syndrome, a genetic disorder. She checked all of the fussy baby boxes: breastfeeding issues, reflux, colic, gas, and constipation.
She also had left-sided tightness, heart issues, and a history of left hip dysplasia. With a child like this, you are not sure what problems are from a tight craniosacral fascial system and what issues are due to the syndrome.
On examination she had a zero-second brain cycle and strain running from her left hip into her left TMJ. The abdominal cavity was very tight, including the fascia into her heart and lungs.
With therapy, I expect the fussy baby conditions such as breastfeeding issues, colic, reflux, gas, and constipation to fade away. For the unique, hardcore Williams syndrome issues, I would be hopeful but expect no change.
But I have not given up on the overlapping issues such as cognitive delays, speech problems, developmental delays, heart defects, and GI issues. In the untreated Williams syndrome population, these may be readily viewed as part of the syndrome.
On the first visit, her brain cycle opened to 90 seconds, a terrific response. I expect that her throat (speech) and left side (movement) will improve with further therapy.
Many of the past infants with heart issues involving fascial strain have cleared with therapy. The fact that I felt strain around her heart is a good sign in that respect.
I believe that she was loaded with GI problems because her fascial web was so tight. Once that is freed up in therapy, I expect a return to health.
In working at a children’s brain injury center for 16 years, I learned that nothing is impossible. I definitely feel that she will do much better than expected with this therapy as she grows up.
Once the nervous system becomes regulated and the full-body fascial web opens, optimum healing can occur. Gillespie Approach Training is a necessity for newborn providers.
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