So, what is paediatric physiotherapy? In short, it’s a form of physical therapy that helps children who are having difficulty with movements and coordination. This might be due to an illness, a birth defect, an accident or even growing pains. 

The goal of paediatric physiotherapy is to help children reach their fullest potential and improve their quality of life. This might involve improving their movement and coordination, relieving pain, helping them cope with an illness or injury, or teaching them how to safely manage activities of daily living. 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of a Possible Condition Requiring Physiotherapy? 

If your child is having difficulty with movements, clumsy, experiencing any pain that persists beyond a couple of days, or is having difficulty with balance or coordination, it could be a sign that they need some physiotherapy. 

There are a number of conditions that paediatric physiotherapists can treat, such as cerebral palsy, developmental delay, low tone, developmental coordination disorder etc. It’s important to catch problems early, as this can help to prevent them from developing into more serious issues down the track. 

If you’re worried about your child, the best thing to do is talk to your GP. They may refer you to a paediatric physio for further assessment. 

When Should I Seek Advice From a Physiotherapist? 

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to seek professional advice. That’s why, if you have any concerns about your child’s development, movement or posture, the best people to speak to are paediatric physiotherapists. 

Physiotherapists are experts in movement and development, and they can help to identify any problems early on. This means that your child will get the help and support they need sooner, which could make all the difference in their development. 

So if you’re ever worried about your child’s movements or posture, don’t hesitate to speak to a paediatric physiotherapist. They’ll be more than happy to help. 

How Do I Find a Good Paediatric Physiotherapist? 

The best way to find a good paediatric physiotherapist is to ask around. Talk to your GP, child and family health nurse, or other parents and see if they have any recommendations. Once you’ve compiled a list of potential candidates, you can start doing your own research. 

A good place to start is by looking at each physiotherapist’s website. See if they have any information about their qualifications and experience treating children. You should also check to see if they’re registered with the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). 

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to give them a call. Ask them about their experience treating children with similar conditions to your child’s. And finally, trust your gut. If you don’t feel like they’re the right fit, keep looking until you find someone who is. 

What Can I Expect at My Child’s First Appointment With a Paediatric Physiotherapist? 

At your child’s first appointment, the physiotherapist will ask you questions about your child’s medical history and current symptoms. They will also observe your child’s movement patterns and how they interact with their environment. 

Based on this information, the physiotherapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs. This may involve exercises and activities that you can do at home with your child, as well as sessions with the physiotherapist. 

It is important to be involved in your child’s treatment plan and to understand the exercises and activities that they are doing. The physiotherapist will explain everything to you in detail and will be available to answer any questions that you have. 

Is There Anything I Can Do to Help Support My Child’s Treatment Process? 

There are a few things you can do to help support your child’s treatment process: 

• Make sure they keep their appointments and arrive on time. This will help them get the most out of their sessions. 
• Help them with their exercises. This doesn’t mean you have to do them for them, but you can encourage them, give them feedback, and help them stay on track. 
• Stay positive. It can be tough to see your child in pain or struggling, but it’s important to stay positive and encourage them. They’ll need your support to get through this. 

Conclusion 

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a physiotherapist—they will be able to give you a more definitive answer as to whether your child needs physio or not. However, if you’re seeing any of the following signs and symptoms in your child, it’s likely that they could benefit from paediatric physiotherapy: 

• Reduced movement or mobility 
• Lack of muscle tone or strength 
• Difficulty with balance or co-ordination 
• Poor posture 
• Persistent unexplained pain 
• Developmental delays 

Contact us at Spring Forward Family Centre and get free assessment for your child’s needs today!

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