The Importance of Mobility & Strength Development in Children who are Blind; Addressing Hip-hinging

In the journey of childhood development, each milestone holds significance in shaping a child's physical abilities. For children who are blind, these milestones may come with unique challenges that require special attention and understanding. One such challenge involves the physical development of leg strength and proper bending techniques. In this article, we will explore the struggles children who are blind may face when bending their knees and how hip-hinging becomes a common compensatory mechanism.

A man who is blind is holding a long cane while displaying a hip flexion pattern where he is bending from the hips only while his legs remain straight - no knee bend.

Understanding the Challenge:

Children typically begin to develop leg strength and bending skills early in life. However, for children who are blind, this process can become more complex due to the absence of visual feedback that aids in learning by imitation. Bending the knees and building leg strength are crucial for maintaining balance, stability, and engaging in various physical activities.

The Role of Hip-Hinging:

Hip-hinging, also known as "hip-flexion pattern," is often observed in children who are blind as a compensatory movement pattern when the knee bend has not been adequately developed. It involves bending at the hips while keeping the knees relatively straight. This compensatory strategy allows children who are blind to interact with their environment, but it can also hinder the development of proper leg strength and mobility.

Challenges and Implications:

While hip-hinging may provide immediate benefits, such as easier exploration and interaction, it can lead to several challenges:

1. Limited Leg Strength: Relying solely on hip-hinging limits the engagement of certain leg muscles, resulting in underdeveloped leg strength, coordination and neuromuscular imbalance. This can impact a child's ability to stand, walk, and participate in physical activities.

2. Postural Instability: Overuse of the hip-hinging pattern can lead to compromised posture and balance. This may result in difficulties with activities that require maintaining an upright posture.

3. Joint Stress: Continued reliance on hip-hinging can put stress on other areas or joints of the body such as the lower back, potentially leading to musculoskeletal issues in the long term.

4. Delayed Motor Skills: Proper bending at the knees is essential for crawling, walking, and other gross motor skills. Children need to develop body concepts and awareness, as well as spatial awareness to understand the function of the bending of the knee. Hip-hinging is the result of interrupted development.

5. Challenges in daily travel: As children grow and become independent in their daily travel, they may face challenges in accessing stairs, escalators, getting up and down from the floor, etc. that will continue into their adulthood if left unaddressed.

Addressing the Issue:

It's essential to provide children who are blind with opportunities to learn and practice proper bending techniques and leg strength development. Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Encourage Exploration: Create a safe and supportive environment that encourages the child to explore different textures, surfaces, and objects. This promotes independent movement and the use of various muscle groups.

2. Physical Therapy: Consult with pediatric physical therapists, or O&M specialists, who specialise in working with children who are blind. They can provide targeted exercises and interventions to promote proper bending techniques and leg strength.

3. Adaptive Equipment: Introduce adaptive equipment such as tactile mats, ramps, stairs, and support structures that promote bending at the knees and encourage proper movement patterns.

4. Guided Play: Engage the child in guided play activities that involve bending, squatting, and kneeling. This can help them practice proper movement and build leg strength.

5. Parent and Caregiver Education: Parents and caregivers can request to receive education on the importance of proper leg strength development and bending techniques. This empowers them to provide consistent support and guidance.

Addressing the mobility challenges for children who are blind when developing leg strength and proper bending techniques requires a multi-faceted approach that involves education, therapy, and a supportive environment. By understanding the development of compensatory hip-hinging and its long term impact, and taking proactive steps to encourage proper leg movement, we can help these children overcome obstacles and achieve their developmental milestones with confidence and independence.

Thanks for reading!

Jax@Tactilecollective