What does a paediatric physiotherapist do?

Written By Shadi

A Paediatric physiotherapist aims to address physical impairments in children to maximise their functional movement. This may help them in their everyday life with the physical challenges faced in play, sport and society.

Here’s what it’s all about and how it can benefit your child.

A Paediatric Physiotherapists Understand That Kids Are Different

Children aren’t just small adults! They’re constantly growing and changing, which affects how they move, balance, and interact with their surroundings. Paediatric physiotherapists know a lot about typical child development and how each stage impacts a child’s muscles, joints, and nerves. This knowledge allows them to tailor treatments to each child’s unique needs, whether they’re an infant, a toddler learning to walk, or a teenager recovering from an injury.

Who Do Paediatric Physiotherapists Help?

Paediatric physiotherapists work with kids of all ages, from babies to teenagers. They see children with various conditions, including:

  • Movement and bone conditions like clubfoot,

  • Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy or developmental delays,

  • Injuries that may come from sports or accidents,

  • Respiratory issues that may affect breathing.

Whether your child has a long-term condition or needs help recovering from an injury, paediatric physiotherapy offers targeted support.

Where Does Paediatric Physiotherapy Happen?

Sometimes, physiotherapists will work with schools or day care centres to help ensure your child’s environment supports their movement and independence. They’ll also work closely with you to make sure exercises can continue at home.

What are the Goals of Paediatric Physiotherapy?

Paediatric physiotherapy is all about your family. Your therapist knows that involving families helps kids reach their goals faster and with more confidence. This means working closely with you to set realistic goals and creating treatment plans that fit your family’s daily life. Paediatric physiotherapists also collaborate with doctors, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, to ensure your child’s needs are met from every angle.

Here are some of the examples of what your therapist can help you with,

  • Manage pain and make movement more comfortable,

  • Strengthen muscles and endurance for daily activities,

  • Enhance balance and coordination to help kids move around safely,

  • Develop gross and fine motor skills to support daily tasks, like dressing or holding objects.

 Techniques Used in Paediatric Physiotherapy

Paediatric physiotherapists use many approaches to make therapy fun and effective. Here are some techniques they might use:

  • Play-based activities that motivate kids to move and have fun,

  • Movement training for improving balance, coordination, and posture,

  • Exercises to build strength and flexibility,

  • Motor learning techniques to help kids master new skills.

These techniques are adapted to your child’s interests and needs, making therapy sessions engaging and productive.

If you're concerned about your child's development or seeking therapy following surgery or an injury, reach out to us. We're here to discuss how our experienced team can support your child's journey.

 When should I take my child to physiotherapy?

It can be tricky to know when to reach out to a paediatric health professional because children’s growth and development can look very different from one child to another.

Here are some examples of when you might contact a paediatric physiotherapist,

·      Your child’s gross motor development, such as sitting, rolling, standing and walking, is, delayed

·      Your child has had an injury or a surgery that has had an impact on their muscles and bones and as a result cannot walk, run or play sports.

·      Your child has a neurological condition such as cerebral palsy, brain injury, stroke, or spinal injury.

·      Your child has a genetic condition that impacts muscles and bones and as a result their ability to walk or complete their daily activities.  

·      Your child has respiratory conditions.

·      Your child experiences pain with movement.

Feel free to contact us at Rehab Space for a FREE 15-minutes phone consult to find out if we can help, or alternatively, you can book an appointment with us.

 

Shadi