Children 's bones are easily broken due to OI, how to handle them?

Have you ever watched the film "Glass" (2019)? One of the protagonist characters in the film, Mr. Glass, described as people born with osteogenesis imperfecta (IO). They are so fragile that they break when they are born. Bone disorders are not just stories, but they also exist.

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disease that is very rare in infants. The patients have fragile bones, so it is very easy to break bones. There are forms of this disease mild to severe. In cases of mild OI, there are only a few broken bones in a person's life, but in cases of severe OI, fractures can occur hundreds of times.
Causes and symptoms of osteogenesis imperfecta
Osteogenesis imperfecta is caused by genetic abnormalities, especially in the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes, which produce procollagen type 1 proteins. These types of proteins play a very important role in the formation of bone binding tissue. With the formation of procollagen, bones become brittle so that only a small amount of impact can break. In addition, this protein is also important in the formation of ligaments, teeth, and ocular sclerosis.

The following symptoms can be found in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta:

Broken bones due to minor injuries
Easy to kill
During ultrasound before birth, this anomaly can be detected, with images of long curved bones, fractures or shortening of limb bones.
History of recurrent fracture
Hearing loss occurs in 50% of sufferers

Caring for children with osteogenesis imperfecta

So far, unfortunately, there is no drug that can cure osteogenesis imperfecta. If you suspect a child with this disorder, see a doctor immediately. Management of these bone disorders requires multidisciplinary treatment. Doctors can provide drugs to help increase bone density. Bone surgery may also be needed. In addition, your child will need physical therapy to strengthen his muscles.

Bones of children with IB break easily, so parents must be careful. However, parents must also always remember that children will continue to grow and develop, and fractures will likely occur no matter how carefully you care for them. Here are some tips for treating children with osteogenesis imperfecta:

No need to worry about touching or holding a baby. Be sure to keep one hand under your buttocks and feet, while the other hand supports your shoulders, neck and head. Do not hold a baby or child by lifting the armpit.
Do not pull, push or bend your baby's arms or legs. If you want to change diapers, lift your buttocks.
Motivate baby / child to keep moving. Support the baby while lying or lying on his side so that his muscles are strong enough to learn to sit or stand later.
Use a reclining car seat to help lift your baby or child.
Do not use baby carriers (cukin / sling)
If your child uses a cast, make sure you understand how to treat it.
Ask your doctor what activities and sports are safe for your child
Teenagers or adults with OI should avoid activities that can reduce bone density, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking long-term steroids.
Maybe parents should often explain the condition of OI to your child's caregiver. For example, in the field of medical care, medical staff must be notified to carry out examination procedures. Like when you draw blood, X-ray or measure your blood pressure. Always carry a medical certificate that can help you.