Osteogenesis Imperfecta Support Group
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a group of genetic bone disorders. It is one of the brittle bone diseases. People with OI either have less collagen than normal or the quality is poorer than normal. As collagen is an important protein in bone structure this impairment causes those with the condition to have weak or fragile bones.
My son, 15, was recently diagnosed with OI he had 5 breaks that were related to trauma. He is very active and is playing hockey. The doctors said he has a very rare form of OI that is very mild. I am wondering if anyone has experience with such a condition and continues with participating in sports and rec activity. No more motorcycles.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
I am finding more and more folks in my circle who are in your situation. They have a child who has a spontaneous generation of OI.
If your son is type 3 (enough collegen is being made, just not of good quality) consider yourself blessed. It is the most readily passed, BUT is one of the more mild forms.
As for treating your son? well Ive taught my boy since he was old enough to walk/talk about OI.
#1 MOST important thing is teaching him how to fall. You put your hands out, youre going to break your arm/hand/elbow....
Because I had the direct experience it was easy for me. snce you don't mention having OI, I might suggest you find a NON SPARRING dojo that will teach him karate or Judo. THAT is an ideal way for him to learn the proper way to fall.
If he has made it to his teens with only 5 fractures he's doing OK. My boy has known since his 1st broken leg that football was something he did NOT want to be involved in. Hockey has a reputation for being violent, but I know it doesn't have to be...
OIF.org has some good information, but one thing you want to avoid is do NOT teat your son like hes made of glass. He has probably already learned many of his limits, just use common sense.
Full contact UFC probably NOT a good career choice. I on the other hand studied Tae Kwon Do for almost 20 years.