Paediatric Physiotherapy near Dundas Valley
As a parent, nothing is more important to you than your children. You want them to experience all the world has to offer and achieve anything they set out to do, regardless of their abilities, strengths, or anything else that may set them apart from their peers. A paediatric physiotherapist is experienced in assisting children of all ages with a wide range of developmental and physical differences to move about their world as freely and easily as possible.
At NDPE, our paediatric physiotherapy services cater to children of all ages, from infants to young adults. We are committed to delivering top-notch paediatric physiotherapy to the community of West Ryde and surrounding regions, including Eastwood, Denistone, Marsfield, Epping, Ryde, Meadowbank, Melrose Park, Dundas Valley, Telopea, Putney, Carlingford, and Ermington.
What is Paediatric Physiotherapy?
Paediatric physiotherapy, or children’s physiotherapy, focuses on addressing movement-related challenges in children. Paediatric physiotherapists acknowledge that children have unique physical characteristics and move differently compared to adults. Through years of education and training in child development, paediatric physiotherapists acquire a thorough understanding of children’s movement development.
Who Does a Paediatric Physiotherapist Help?
{A paediatric physio focuses on children’s movement abilities in all children from newborns to teenagers, due to a number of conditions and disabilities. | A paediatric physiotherapist’s skills lie in evaluating and improving children’s movement abilities from infancy to adolescence, considering a wide range of conditions and disabilities.
Babies
{Paediatric physiotherapists} recognise that babies, especially those born prematurely (at less than 36 weeks gestation) or with a low birth weight (under 1500g), have specific needs as they adjust to life outside the womb. Their thorough education and training equip them to understand these unique requirements and collaborate with both baby and parent to assist in their development:
- Needing help to turn their heads
- Having difficulty with tummy time
- With flat spots on the back or side or their heads
- Experiencing difficulty with sitting, rolling, crawling, and/or walking
- Who are slower to achieve their milestones
Children
Paediatric physiotherapy encompasses a broad spectrum of ages, ranging from babies to young adults. Children undergo rapid growth and development, which can result in discomfort and pain during growth spurts, regardless of any other challenges they may have. Paediatric physiotherapy may assist children with:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Brain injuries
- Other injuries and trauma
- Muscular dystrophies
- Congenital conditions such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
- Musculoskeletal issues such as Sever’s Disease and patellofemoral pain
- Rheumatological and pain conditions including arthritis, myositis, and chronic pain
- Chronic respiratory conditions such as cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and primary ciliary dyskinesia
- Problems with balance, posture, coordination, and gross motor skills
- Joint, muscle, or nervous system problems
- Sports injuries
- Recovery after surgery
With a deep understanding of child development, your physiotherapist acknowledges that some children may take time to feel at ease with the concept of physiotherapy. This is a natural part of the process, and your children’s physio will work closely with all parties involved to ensure your child’s comfort.
Your Paediatric Physiotherapy Questions Answered
What does a paediatric physiotherapist look at?
While physiotherapy is often linked to adults, particularly those managing chronic pain, injuries, or rehabilitation, paediatric physiotherapists employ similar therapeutic techniques that are uniquely designed to cater to children’s needs, focusing on improving motor development, balance, coordination, range of motion, and strength. A paediatric physiotherapist will assess your child’s:
- Motor development
- Overall development
- Muscle tone, strength, and endurance
- Coordination
- Balance
- Stability
- Joint mechanics and alignment
- Communication
- Sensory challenges
What happens in a paediatric physiotherapy appointment?
The specific treatment will be based on your child’s assessment results. Since each child’s age, abilities, and condition vary, the treatment plan will be adapted accordingly. However, as a general reference, your children’s physio appointments may include:
- Hands-on physiotherapy
- Education on their condition
- Trialling orthotics, splints, or other equipment
- Communicating with other health professionals and support providers
How long will a paediatric physiotherapy appointment last for?
The length of the appointment will depend on multiple factors, including the condition your child has and the severity of the condition. Initial appointments will typically last over an hour, as this session will include getting to know your child and performing a comprehensive assessment. Follow-up appointments will generally take less time; however, the actual appointment time will vary between individuals.
Why Choose NDPE West Ryde?
At NDPE, we believe in building a strong connection with you and your child as individuals and as a family. Our experienced paediatric physiotherapists are here to assist your child’s progress and empower you to aid them. Through a supportive relationship, we aim to enhance your child’s physical and emotional well-being, providing them with all-encompassing support.
Book Your Paediatric Physiotherapy Appointment in West Ryde
At NDPE, our experienced physiotherapists have a comprehensive understanding of children’s unique requirements and are prepared to assist your child feel and move at their best. To arrange an appointment, get in touch with our team today. BOOK A PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPY APPOINTMENT
Phone us to book an appointment: 02 9874 8410
Or book on-line: www.ndpe.com.au