PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPY – PHYSIO FOR KIDS

The branch of physiotherapy which specifically addresses the needs of children from birth to adolescence is paediatric physiotherapy. Triston Hunter, Paediatric Physiotherapist specialises in this type of physiotherapy. Paediatric physiotherapy can promote independence, increased participation, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength, enhances learning opportunities and eases care giving.

Paediatric physiotherapists are specialists in child development and have extensive knowledge in normal and abnormal movement patterns as well as specific neurological, genetic and orthopaedic conditions. Paediatric physios work to help children reach their maximum potential for functional independence. They collaborate with families and other medical, educational, developmental and rehabilitation specialists. They promote the participation of children in daily activities and routines in the home, school and community.

Why would you see a Paediatric Physiotherapist?

If you are concerned about any aspect of your child's development especially his/her gross motor skills or the way he/she moves, a paediatric physio may be able to help. A paediatric physio is a trained specialist in normal and abnormal movement patterns and will assess and evaluate your child to determine his/her strengths, weaknesses and needs and then develop appropriate treatment strategy.

 

Typical problems and concerns that usually warrant a referral for paediatric physiotherapy are:

  • You are concerned about your child's development
  • Your child was premature and needs follow up care
  • Your child is not sitting or walking when other children their age are
  • Your child moves in a stiff and unvaried way
  • Your child is floppy
  • You are worried about your child's hips or feet
  • Your child only moves head or neck to one side

What type of treatment does a Paediatric Physiotherapist do?

A paediatric physio tries to incorporate play into as much of the treatment as possible using his/her own hands, various equipment and encouraging the child to participate as much as possible. The paediatric physio works closely with the family and child to form a cohesive team to address the specific needs of the child.

A typical treatment session for a child might include:

  • Stretching exercises
  • Strengthening weak muscles
  • Balance and coordination exercises
  • Exercises to facilitate gross motor development
  • Exercises to improve how the child walks
  • Implementation of a specific home exercise programme

As the child will only see the paediatric physiotherapist for a finite period of time, parents and families play an important role in facilitating their child's development. The physio will implement a home exercise programme which will be catered to the child's and families needs and abilities. This will promote confidence in the child to participate to their maximum.

Triston Hunter
Sports Physiotherapist|
M: 0434 166 378