ABSTRACT

There are a variety of physical factors which may affect any girl with Rett Syndrome to differing degrees, the most common of which are as follows:

Many pupils with Rett Syndrome have quite severe physical disabilities. Some remain non-ambulant, whilst others learn to walk - sometimes at a much later age than is typical. Of those who do learn to walk, many do so with a characteristic broad-based and stiff gait. Lindberg (1991) described girls who rocked, bent their bodies, staggered or showed problems with balance. Few in this study developed response reactions to protect themselves; for example, when falling few girls were able to use their hands to save themselves. A large number of them are nervous when walking on uneven surfaces.