Paediatrics
Our Assessment:
At PhysioActive, our physiotherapists and osteopaths understand the significant impact we can have on the development of our children. Our paediatric physical therapists will begin by conducting a thorough physical examination of your child, assessing their strength, range of motion, balance, and coordination. They will also observe the child’s movement patterns and ask questions about their medical history and any previous injuries. An osteopath may also conduct a physical examination, focusing on the musculoskeletal system and looking for any areas of tension or restriction in the child’s body. They may also inquire about the child’s medical history and any other factors that may contribute to the injury, such as stress or poor posture.
Our Treatment:
Paediatric physical therapists and osteopaths may address a child’s strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, and movement patterns to identify any areas of dysfunction or limitation. We will assess your child’s posture, gait, gross and fine motor movement, balance, and their overall musculoskeletal health to identify any areas of tension or restriction that may contribute to their condition or injury.
Based on their assessment, your paediatric physical therapists and osteopaths will develop a customized treatment plan that may include specific exercises, manual therapies, or other interventions designed to address the child’s unique needs and goals. Treatment may focus on improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as enhancing overall movement patterns and functional skills.
Paediatric physical therapists will incorporate play-based activities into their treatment plans to engage your child and make therapy enjoyable and engaging. We will always work closely with the child’s parents or caregivers to ensure that the child is receiving consistent and appropriate care at home. Based on our assessment, we will develop a customized treatment plan that includes specific exercises, manual therapies, or other interventions designed to address the child’s unique needs and goals. Throughout the treatment process, we will continually assess your child’s progress and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.
Osteopaths may use manual therapies, such as gentle manipulation and mobilization techniques, to help release areas of tension and restriction in the child’s body. They may also provide guidance on proper posture and movement to help prevent future injuries. It’s important to note that treatment plans will vary depending on the individual child’s needs and goals, and paediatric physical therapists and osteopaths may work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals, such as a physician or occupational therapist, to ensure the safest and most effective treatment plan for the child.
Our Technology
At PhysioActive, we incorporate the most up-to-date and evidence-based technologies to complement your hands-on therapy. Many conditions can benefit from healing technologies such as laser therapy and our use of the Integrated Listening System (iLS). Our favourite example is using the iLS to help our client’s toe-walking. He was being considered for casting and Botox to help correct his toe-walking, but with the use of iLS to help calm the nervous system and retrain the eyes, ears, and vestibular system, he was able to walk normally immediately.
Other technologies, such as interactive apps, exercise programs, and healing devices such as laser therapy, have been shown to be effective in healing and safe for your kids, making therapy fun and effective. We may use MBS and laser therapy to improve the healing of the neck and nervous system. On rare occasions, we will use other physiotherapy modalities to assist in healing.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves to the side. The exact cause of scoliosis is often unknown, but it can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
As a physiotherapist, I may use the following approaches to help manage scoliosis:
- Exercise: I may prescribe exercises to help improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles supporting the spine, reduce pain, and improve posture.
- Manual therapy: I may use manual therapy techniques such as spinal mobilization and manipulation to improve the function and alignment of the spine.
- Movement and breathing: I may teach you exercises to improve your posture and alignment and how to breathe more effectively to support the spine.
- Bracing: In some cases, I may recommend the use of a brace to help support the spine and prevent the progression of the curve.
As an osteopath, I may use manual techniques to improve the function and alignment of the spine and to relieve pain. This may involve techniques such as gentle stretching, massage, and joint mobilization.
It’s important to seek a professional assessment from a healthcare provider such as a physiotherapist or osteopath to receive an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan for scoliosis. In some cases, scoliosis may require medical intervention or surgery, so it’s important to receive regular monitoring and follow-up care to manage your condition effectively.
Torticollis
Conventional wisdom is to stretch the muscles of the neck and teach parents how to do the same at home. This can involve a great deal of crying, and although it seems to improve newborns’ flat spots and range of motion, we find that no crying is needed. Our cranial therapists and osteopaths take a…
Toe walking
Toe-walking is a common gait pattern observed in children, particularly those younger than three years old. It can occur due to various factors, including muscle tightness, neurological issues, and sensory processing challenges.
One of the ways that the vestibular system can contribute to toe walking is by affecting the development of proper balance and coordination skills. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, provides important information to the brain about the position and movement of the head in space. If the vestibular system is not functioning properly, it can result in difficulties with balance, coordination, and gait patterns.
Typical interventions for children who toe-walk include:
- Physical therapy: This may include stretching and strengthening exercises to help improve muscle flexibility and tone, as well as gait training to help develop proper walking patterns.
- Sensory integration therapy: This type of therapy addresses sensory processing issues and can help the child develop proper sensory awareness and regulation, which can improve gait patterns.
- Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts or foot orthotics can help to provide support and stability for the feet and legs during walking.
- Bracing: Wearing a brace that helps to extend the ankle can be helpful in some cases, particularly if there is significant muscle tightness.
Treating the nervous system and vestibular system to help with toe walking often involves a combination of physical and sensory therapies. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address any underlying neurological issues. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which specifically targets the vestibular system, can also be beneficial. This type of therapy involves specific exercises and activities that help to improve vestibular function and balance skills.
FAQ
-
How can a physiotherapist or osteopath help with my child's growing pains? Growing pains can be distressing for both the child and the parent. Our practitioners use gentle techniques to alleviate discomfort and promote balanced muscle growth, helping your child feel more comfortable as they grow. -
Is it safe for my child to receive treatment? Yes, absolutely. Our physiotherapists and osteopaths are highly trained in pediatric care. They use gentle, non-invasive techniques that are specifically designed to be safe and effective for children of all ages. -
How many sessions will my child need? The number of sessions varies depending on your child's specific condition and how they respond to treatment. Some children may see improvements quickly, while others may benefit from ongoing care. We tailor the treatment plan to your child’s unique needs. -
What conditions can be treated with physiotherapy and osteopathy? We treat a wide range of pediatric conditions, including developmental delays, Osgood-Schlatter disease, gait abnormalities, postural issues, and anxiety. Our holistic approach helps address both the symptoms and underlying causes, promoting long-term well-being. -
Will my child experience pain during treatment? Our treatments are designed to be as comfortable as possible. We use gentle, hands-on techniques that are well-tolerated by children. Your child's comfort is our top priority, and we work at a pace that suits them. -
Can physiotherapy or osteopathy help with my child's sports injuries? Yes, our practitioners are skilled in treating sports injuries in children and adolescents. We focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, and preventing future injuries. Whether it’s a sprain, strain, or overuse injury, we’ll create a personalized plan to get your child back to their activities safely. -
How can therapy help with anxiety in my child? Osteopathy can be particularly beneficial for children experiencing anxiety. By addressing physical tension and supporting the nervous system, our practitioners help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being in your child. -
Is my child too young to start treatment? It's never too early to seek help if you have concerns about your child’s development or health. Our team is experienced in working with children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. Early intervention can be key to ensuring your child’s healthy development. -
What should we expect during the first appointment? During the first appointment, we’ll conduct a thorough assessment to understand your child’s needs and concerns. We’ll then discuss a personalized treatment plan with you, answering any questions you may have. Our approach is collaborative, ensuring that both you and your child feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.
Infant Care
CranioSacral Therapy (CST)
Physiotherapy
