Family resources
Definitions & acronyms
Words and abbreviations you may hear in care, education, and family conversations.
Use the words as a starting point
This glossary is for orientation and has not received clinical review. Ask the professional using a term what it means for your family.
- AAC
- Augmentative and alternative communication: ways of communicating that supplement or replace speech, such as gestures, pictures, or a communication device.
- AFO
- Ankle-foot orthosis: a brace supporting the ankle and foot.
- Antiseizure medication (anticonvulsant)
- Medication prescribed to treat seizures.
- Aquatic therapy
- Therapy carried out in water. It is distinct from recreational swimming and needs an individual plan.
- Clinical geneticist
- A clinician specializing in the diagnosis and management of genetic conditions.
- CVI
- Cerebral visual impairment, also called cortical visual impairment: difficulty with vision related to how the brain processes visual information.
- DME
- Durable medical equipment. Ask the supplier or funding program which equipment its definition covers.
- Gastroenterologist
- A physician who specializes in the digestive system.
- Hippotherapy
- The use of a horse’s movement within a professional therapy plan. Ask the treating professional about suitability and safety.
- Ketogenic diet
- A specialized dietary treatment sometimes used for epilepsy under medical supervision. It is not a diet to start from website instructions.
- Neurologist
- A physician who specializes in the brain and nervous system.
- Nutrition professional
- A professional advising on food and nutrition. Titles and qualifications vary; ask your care team which qualified professional should manage medical nutrition needs.
- Occupational therapist
- A professional who helps people participate in everyday activities, including through adaptations and equipment.
- Ophthalmologist
- A physician who specializes in eye health and vision.
- Orthopedic specialist
- A specialist in the musculoskeletal system, including bones and joints.
- Physical therapist
- A professional who assesses and supports movement and physical function.
- Pulmonologist
- A physician who specializes in the lungs and breathing.
- SMO
- Supramalleolar orthosis: a brace extending above the ankle bones to support the foot and ankle.
- Speech-language pathologist
- A professional who assesses and supports communication and swallowing. Communication support can include AAC.
- Vision support
- A broad term for services addressing visual access or skills. Ask which professional provides the service, their qualifications, and the specific goals.
- VNS implant
- Vagus nerve stimulation: an implanted device used in some epilepsy treatment plans. A neurologist can explain whether evaluation is appropriate.
Further reading: Cerebral visual impairment (National Eye Institute) and AAC (ASHA).