strange behavior

Our daughter, who is now 5 years old, was adopted from Russia at 10 mos. Her birth mother reportedly drank heavily during pregnancy and had untreated syphilis.  At around 3 years of age, she began having shaking/shivering spells. At first, she did it only in response to positive stimuli - watching a favorite video, riding on a favorite riding toy, etc. Over the past 2 years, the behavior has intensified, with hand wringing, eyes crossing, occasional gutteral noises, and shaking. She does it almost all the time now when she is not directly engaged in an activity. She also complains of frequent headaches. We brought her to a psychiatrist who is not sure what it might be, but guesses that it might be like a nervous tic.  We also brought her to a neurologist who suggested an EEG. Her EEG was normal. Her kindergarten teacher reports that she does fine so long as she has a structured activity to do.  Whenever her time is not structured, she stands to the side doing this strange shaking behavior and refuses to participate or engage with other kids.  She has callouses or blisters on all of her knuckles, which are swollen and red from all of the hand wringing that goes along with the shaking.  Other than this behavior, she is a delightful and happy child. Any thoughts on what this might be and what we should do?  Thanks for your help.

[HFHS M.D.-SW]

Dear Lisa,

It must be difficult trying to find answers for your daughter's behavioral problems.

Fortunately, you are taking the right steps. It is important to continue follow up with the psychiatrist and the neurologist.
It may also be helpful, if possible, to know more about the medical history of the biological parents.

Since your daughter responses well to strucure, it may be in her best interest to maintain a caring, loving and structured environment.

Best Wishes,

HFHS M.D.-SW

[Kate]

I have read up on a disorder related to alchol abuse on the mother's part called FAS, believe that stands for Fetal Alchol Syndrome. Your daughter seems to be exhibiting same symptoms as described. There is info pertaining to this on the web. Hope you and the docs find the answer!
blessings,
Kate