Paediatric Physiotherapy near Ermington, 2115
Your children’s happiness and success are your top priorities as a parent. You believe in supporting their dreams and aspirations, regardless of any challenges they may face. A paediatric physiotherapist is skilled in assisting children of various ages and with diverse developmental and physical differences, empowering them to navigate the world with enhanced freedom and comfort. 
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, also referred to as paediatric physio or children’s physiotherapy, focuses on assisting children with movement-related challenges. Paediatric physiotherapists recognise that children have unique physical characteristics and move in distinct ways compared to adults. Their training involves in-depth education in child development, and they have a particular interest in understanding how children develop movement skills.
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 is focused on evaluating and enhancing children’s movement abilities throughout all stages of childhood, encompassing newborns to teenagers, and providing care for various conditions and disabilities.
Babies
Babies, especially those who were born prematurely (at less than 36 weeks gestation) or at a low birth weight (under 1500g), have specific needs as they adapt to life on the outside. Thanks to their extensive education and training, paediatric physiotherapists understand these needs and how to work with both baby and parent to assist babies:
- 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
Children’s physio extends from babies to young adults. Children of all ages may benefit from paediatric physiotherapy, as their rapidly growing bodies undergo a lot of changes in a short period of time. Growth spurts can cause pain and discomfort in children regardless of any additional challenges. Paediatric physiotherapy aims to support 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
Your physiotherapist, with a comprehensive understanding of child development, recognises that some children may take longer to feel comfortable with the idea of physiotherapy. This is a normal part of the process, and your children’s physio will collaborate with everyone involved to create a supportive and comfortable environment for your child.
Your Paediatric Physiotherapy Questions Answered
What does a paediatric physiotherapist look at?
People often associate physiotherapy with adults, particularly adults with chronic pain or injuries, or those who are undergoing rehabilitation. While a paediatric physio may use similar therapies, they’re specifically tailored to children with the aim of 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 plan will be determined based on the results of your child’s assessment. As each child’s age, abilities, and condition differ, the treatment will be tailored accordingly. However, as a general guideline, 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 be influenced by various factors, such as the specific condition your child has and its severity. Initial appointments are typically longer, lasting over an hour, as they involve getting to know your child and conducting a comprehensive assessment. Follow-up appointments will generally be shorter, but the exact duration will vary among individuals.
Why Choose NDPE West Ryde?
At NDPE, our experienced paediatric physiotherapists take the time to know you and your child on a personal level, as well as your family as a whole. We are committed to assisting your child’s growth and empowering you to support them. By fostering a caring relationship, we strive to ensure your child receives comprehensive support both physically and emotionally.
Book Your Paediatric Physiotherapy Appointment in West Ryde
At NDPE, our experienced physiotherapists understand children’s unique needs and are ready to support your child to feel and move as well as possible. To book an appointment, get in contact 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
