Paediatric Physiotherapy
Also known as: child physiotherapy or paediatric physical therapy
A paediatric physiotherapist helps children improve movement and manage physical health issues. Paediatric physiotherapy is essential for promoting children’s health and functionality, particularly for those with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities, using play-based therapy to enhance physical and cognitive development.
What is paediatric physiotherapy?
Paediatric physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of children and young people. It seeks to enhance movement and improve quality of life, supporting children in maintaining optimal functionality. This therapy is vital for children with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities, providing a path to better physical health.
One of the primary goals of paediatric physiotherapy is to assist children in maintaining their movement capabilities, which in turn plays a vital role in their overall development. Addressing these needs allows paediatric physiotherapists to help children engage in daily activities and lead a more active lifestyle.
Additionally, paediatric physiotherapy incorporates play-based therapy, encouraging children to interact with their environment and learn through exploration, which is essential for child development. This approach not only supports physical development but also enhances cognitive growth, making therapy sessions enjoyable and effective.
Active participation from parents and caregivers is crucial in the treatment process. Paediatric physiotherapists emphasise family engagement, involving parents in ongoing physiotherapy efforts. This not only provides children with consistent support but also helps parents learn how to assist their children outside of therapy sessions.
Collaboration is key in paediatric physiotherapy. Therapists often work alongside educational staff and other health professionals to provide comprehensive care. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of a child’s condition are addressed, leading to more effective outcomes. Integrating play-based therapy into treatment plans keeps children motivated and engaged, making the therapy both fun and beneficial.
Why children might need paediatric physiotherapy
Children may need paediatric physiotherapy for various reasons, such as congenital conditions or injuries from play or sports. For instance, cerebral palsy often requires physiotherapy to develop motor skills and improve functional independence. Similarly, children with cystic fibrosis benefit from physiotherapy to enhance respiratory function and manage lung health.
Rheumatological conditions like juvenile idiopathic arthritis also necessitate physiotherapy to maintain joint mobility and reduce pain. Additionally, children with spina bifida require ongoing physiotherapy to manage their mobility and overall physical function. Sports injuries are another common reason for paediatric physiotherapy, as these treatments promote recovery and help children return to their physical activities.
Targeted physiotherapy for physical development and movement issues can greatly enhance a child’s health and life quality. Focusing on the specific needs of each child allows paediatric physiotherapists to help them overcome physical difficulties and achieve better health outcomes.
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Several key steps can enhance the effectiveness of paediatric physiotherapy sessions. Parents should attend all appointments for children under 16, providing crucial support. Dressing the child in loose-fitting, comfortable attire also facilitates easy movement during the assessment.
Bringing any assistive devices and specialist equipment your child uses allows the physiotherapist to assess their functionality and make adjustments. Having your child’s medical details on hand can further help tailor the session to their specific needs.
Parents should discuss their child’s interests and daily activities with the therapist, providing valuable context for a more effective treatment plan. Proper preparation significantly enhances the assessment’s effectiveness, ensuring it meets the child’s needs.
During therapy
The physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination, allowing an evaluation of strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance using various techniques. These assessments offer a comprehensive understanding of the child’s condition and inform the treatment plan.
Games or play are commonly used to engage children during assessment and treatment, making sessions enjoyable and helping the physiotherapist accurately assess abilities in a natural setting.
Types of paediatric physiotherapy treatments
Paediatric physiotherapy employs a variety of therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. These treatments aim to enhance physical capabilities and improve overall quality of life. Two primary approaches include play-based therapy and exercise and movement programmes.
Tailored treatment plans are crucial in paediatric physiotherapy. These plans often involve exercises and activities that children can perform at home or in school, ensuring that therapy continues beyond the clinical setting. By incorporating these approaches, paediatric physiotherapists can significantly enhance children’s physical abilities and overall well-being.
Play-based therapy
Play-based therapy is a cornerstone of paediatric physiotherapy, specifically designed to engage children in activities that promote motor skills while making the therapy process enjoyable and motivating. This therapeutic method transforms exercises into fun activities, encouraging children to participate actively and willingly.
Engaging in playful activities helps children develop their physical skills in a positive environment. These carefully chosen activities target specific motor skills, making therapy effective and enjoyable.
One of the significant benefits of play-based therapy is that it helps children view their rehabilitation positively. Associating therapy with play increases the likelihood that children will engage with their treatment plans and make consistent progress towards their recovery goals.
Exercise and movement programmes
Exercise and movement programmes are key components of paediatric physiotherapy, designed to promote normal movement and enhance physical function. Tailored to each child’s unique needs, these programs effectively support development and mobility.
Regular exercise is crucial in these programs. Children are encouraged to perform exercises both during therapy sessions and at home, helping to maintain progress and ensure long-term benefits.
Promoting normal movement and maximising function, exercise programs are essential for improving the quality of life for children. These programs form an integral part of the therapeutic interventions offered by paediatric physiotherapists.
After therapy
Post-therapy care and support are vital for maintaining progress made during sessions. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. These 30-minute appointments are essential for improving quality and continued improvement.
Parents and caregivers should learn how to assist with exercises at home, reinforcing therapy outcomes and enhancing progress. A supportive home environment can motivate the child to follow therapy recommendations.
After assessments, physiotherapists may recommend exercises, treatments, or referrals for a specialist assessment. Monitoring changes in the child’s mobility or abilities between sessions provides valuable feedback, ensuring the treatment remains effective.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial assessment
At your first appointment, we will take a detailed medical history and perform an assessment to better understand your child’s condition.
Treatment plan
During this appointment, we will review your child’s results and collaboratively decide on the next steps regarding their treatment.
Treatment
Based on the treatment plan, you will visit our physiotherapy department with your child for treatment/s. If required and indicated, additional sessions may be added.
Aftercare
You will go away with a plan of action that you have agreed with your physiotherapist. Your child may have a new exercise programme or a course of treatment, or may be referred to another specialist.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
We offer 3 ways to pay for your treatment
We exist to take the stress out of private healthcare.
Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
Our patient services team will guide you through the process, providing clear costs and support throughout your course of treatment so you can focus on the thing that matters most – your health.
Whether you pay in advance, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance, rest assured you will be receiving exceptional care 365 days a year.
Pay in Advance
Even if you do not have medical insurance, you can still get quick and comprehensive access to private medical care.
We provide transparent pricing from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment so you know where your stand, every step of the way.
We accept all major debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay for UK residents. Please note that we do not accept cash or cheques.
Pay monthly
Paying for your treatment at OSD Healthcare doesn’t need to mean settling the full cost in one go.
Many of our treatments have a pay monthly option that allows you to spread the cost of your treatment over 12 months with no credit checks required.
A minimum spend of £300 does apply. We’ll take your first payment upfront and then arrange a direct debit for your monthly payments thereafter. It’s that simple.
Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.