Paediatric

Physiotherapy

SA PAEDIATRICS AND NEWBORNS ( SAPAN)

What is Paediatric Physiotherapy?

Paediatric physiotherapy is a specialised field of medicine that focuses on the care of infants, children, and adolescents’ physical development and movement abilities. The goal of paediatric physiotherapy is to identify and treat any issues that may impact the child’s ability to move, play, or participate in other activities.

Physiotherapy for babies, toddlers, and children involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of physical conditions that affect children.

Paediatric physiotherapists may treat a wide range of physical problems, including developmental delays, cerebral palsy, torticollis, scoliosis, sports injuries, and posture problems.

How can working with a Paediatric Physiotherapist benefit my child?

A paediatric physiotherapist can help your child in many ways, including:

Improved physical function: Physiotherapy can help improve a child’s mobility, strength, and flexibility, allowing them to perform daily activities with greater ease.
Reduced pain: A physiotherapist can help alleviate pain associated with various conditions, such as injuries or chronic diseases.
Enhanced motor skills: Physiotherapy can improve a child’s balance, coordination, and posture, which can lead to improved motor skills and better participation in sports and other physical activities.
Improved breathing: Physiotherapy can help children with respiratory issues, such as asthma, by improving breathing techniques and lung capacity.
Faster recovery: If a child has experienced an injury or undergone surgery, physiotherapy can help speed up the recovery process and minimise the risk of complications.
Better quality of life: By improving physical function and reducing pain, physiotherapy can improve a child’s overall quality of life, allowing them to participate more fully in daily activities and enjoy a greater sense of independence.

How do I know if my child needs to see a physiotherapist?

There are many signs that your child may benefit from seeing a paediatric physiotherapist, these may include:

Developmental delay or disability: If a child has a delay in reaching developmental milestones or has a physical disability, a physiotherapist can help with exercises and techniques to improve their mobility and overall function.

Sports injuries: Active children who play sports are at risk of injury, such as sprains, strains, and fractures. A physiotherapist can assist with recovery and rehabilitation, as well as teach injury prevention techniques.

Scoliosis: This is a condition in which the spine curves abnormally, and physiotherapy can help to strengthen the back muscles and improve posture.

Coordination difficulties: Some children may struggle with coordination, balance, and spatial awareness, which can affect their ability to participate in everyday activities. A physiotherapist can help with exercises and activities to improve these skills.

Post-surgery rehabilitation: If a child has undergone surgery, physiotherapy may be recommended to aid their recovery and restore their mobility.

Neurological conditions: Children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy may require physiotherapy to improve their movement, coordination, and muscle strength.

Breathing difficulties: Children with respiratory problems, such as asthma or cystic fibrosis, may require physiotherapy to improve their breathing and clear their airways.

Torticollis: This is a condition in which a child’s neck is twisted, causing difficulty with head and neck movements. Physiotherapy can help to stretch and strengthen the neck muscles to improve movement.

*It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and each child’s needs are unique. A paediatric physiotherapist can assess and recommend appropriate treatment based on the child’s individual situation.

What will the sessions look like with my child?

A session with a paediatric physiotherapist typically involves a thorough assessment of the child’s physical abilities, motor skills, and development.

The physiotherapist will evaluate the child’s range of motion, strength, balance, and coordination through a series of tests and observations.

During the session, the physiotherapist will work closely with the child to teach and guide them through exercises and activities. They will also provide feedback and encouragement to help the child improve their skills and confidence.
In addition to working with the child, the physiotherapist may also provide education and training to parents or caregivers on how to assist with exercises and support the child’s progress at home.

Sessions with a pediatric physiotherapist are designed to be engaging and fun for the child, with activities that are age-appropriate and incorporate play and creativity. The overall goal is to help the child achieve optimal physical function and independence, as well as improve their overall quality of life.

little girl in striped shirt smiling at a doctor during an autism assessment

How long will my child need to see a paediatric physiotherapist?

The duration of treatment will depend on your child’s individual needs and progress. While some children may only require a few appointments and home-based exercises to improve their physical health, others may require a more intensive set of sessions to improve or correct any underlying conditions.

The paediatric physiotherapist will assess your child’s progress regularly and provide you with an update on their progress, as well as guidance on the duration and frequency of therapy sessions based on your child’s needs.

What if my child needs other therapies?

It’s important to note that physiotherapy for children is not just about treating existing conditions, but also preventing them from occurring in the first place. By addressing physical problems early, physiotherapists can help children maintain healthy physical development and movement abilities and avoid complications later in life.

SA Paediatrics and Newborns boasts a group of allied health professionals with varied expertise who collaborate to create a personalised treatment plan that caters to your child’s complete physical, emotional, and developmental requirements. This holistic approach means that your child benefits from the highest quality care and support, which can make a significant difference in their overall health and wellbeing.

FIND OUT MORE

Contact SA Paediatrics and Newborns for more information or to book an appointment on 08 7081 9819.