Fetal alcohol syndrome: review of the literature with implications for physical therapists.

The purpose of this review is to familiarize physical therapists with the diagnostic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics associated with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and other alcohol-related birth defects. Through review of FAS research studies of both humans and animals, the prevalence, pharmacokinetics, and clinical features of this syndrome are described. Deficits in the areas of cognitive, behavioral, and motor development are also described. Particular attention is given to neuromotor differences and orthopedic abnormalities associated with FAS that may require consultation or intervention from physical therapists.