Paediatric Physiotherapy
What is Paediatric Physiotherapy?
The Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists (APCP) give the following description:
"Paediatric physiotherapy is the treatment and care of babies, children and young people from birth to 19 years. Paediatric physiotherapists bring their specialist skills as physiotherapists and have additional expert knowledge and experience of child development and of childhood disabilities." (APCP, 2014)
Paediatric Physiotherapy treatments are based on individual assessments, where any issues around movement, strength or development can be identified by the therapist. Children are not just small adults, and their assessment must be tailored to their age, ability and personal goals. It should be fun and interactive, to encourage children to participate and maximise their outcomes from Physiotherapy.
Paediatric Physiotherapy works best when done in close partnership with the parents/caregivers, and other appropriate healthcare professionals involved in the child’s care.
How can Paediatric Physiotherapy help me?
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Paediatric Physiotherapy can be effective in a wide range of conditions
Structural Issues
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Torticollis and Plagiocephaly (flat head)
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Muscle tightness
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Growth related pain
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Sports injuries
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Postural stiffness and pain
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Post-surgical or injury rehabilitation
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Hypermobility
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Club foot
It can also help with
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Issues associated with prematurity
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Developmental Delay
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Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy
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Gait (walking) abnormalities
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Abnormal muscle tone (hyper or hypotonicity)
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Genetic and congenital conditions