Location

Syria, Aleppo

Sectors

Health

Duration

Oct, 2024

Hala's Journey with Physical Therapy

Case Information
  • • Child’s Name: Hala Younes
    • Age: 7 years
    • Diagnosis: Cerebral palsy caused by perinatal hypoxia
    • Development Status: Delay in motor and cognitive development
Background :

Hala suffers from cerebral palsy, which affects her motor skills and physical
growth, like many other children in northwest Syria. Children with cerebral
palsy often require long-term physical therapy, sometimes extending for years
or even their entire lives. Physical therapy is a pathway toward a more
independent life, often supported by adaptive devices that aid in treatment
objectives such as managing spasticity, stabilizing joints, or compensating for
muscle weakness or paralysis. These devices need frequent adjustments due to
the children’s growth or progress in their mobility.

Awesome Image
One of these children

One of these children is Hala, who receives regular physical therapy sessions at another center and was recently referred to our PAC center, supported by
Action Syria, for medical evaluation. The specialist doctor assessed her
condition and established an updated physical therapy plan, adjusted as her
condition evolves. Additionally, the appropriate adaptive devices were
prescribed for her.

AFO (ankle-foot orthoses)

In Hala's case, bilateral AFO (ankle-foot orthoses) devices were recommended
to support her ankle joints. This support helps Hala practice standing and
walking with the guidance of her physical therapist. This is the second orthotic
device that our center has provided for Hala. Her therapist will closely monitor
her progress, using these orthotics to help her continue her journey toward
standing and, hopefully, walking with the aid of suitable mobility supports.

What is your benefit from this project?

The benefit of this project lies in its ability to provide tailored, high-quality support to children like Hala, ensuring they receive the necessary care to improve their quality of life. Specifically:

Holistic Care: The project ensures that children receive not just therapy but also ongoing medical evaluations and adjustments to their treatment plans, tailored to their evolving needs.

Empowerment and Inclusion: Providing adaptive devices and specialized therapy allows children to participate more fully in daily activities, fostering independence and social inclusion.

Sustainability of Care: The ability to adjust care plans as conditions evolve ensures long-term support and continuity, promoting better health outcomes for beneficiaries.

In summary, the project provides comprehensive, evolving, and specialized support that improves the lives of children with specific needs, empowering them and their families in meaningful ways.

Quote from Hala
“When I wear my braces, I feel like I’m almost flying!”
 

More information about PAC's Stories

PAC is active nutrition NGO in the Syrian context since 2012 and has long experience in the field through over than 700 staff, and 39 field facilities