Pediatric Physiotherapy
What is pediatric physiotherapy?
Pediatric physiotherapy is a field of physiotherapy for children aged 0 to 17. Conditions treated may include orthopedic problems (sprains, fractures...), postural problems, torticollis or plagiocephaly, or even delayed motor development.
A pediatric physiotherapist will assess your child's motor function, tone, flexibility and strength in order to suggest the best exercises.
Did you know?
Did you know that not all babies follow the same chronology when it comes to their developmental milestones? There's a recommended period for rolling, sitting, standing and walking, but every child is different. If you're concerned that your child is falling behind in his motor development, he may simply need a little extra help. Often, this delay is not due to an underlying medical problem, but to a lack of strength.
Babies go through phases of development in which certain positions encourage the development of different muscle groups.
Sometimes they may skip or avoid these positions/movements because they are too difficult for them, which may be due to poor trunk development.
When should I consult a pediatric physiotherapist?
A pediatric physiotherapist can be consulted for any of the following conditions:
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Ligament sprains or muscle damage
- Scoliosis
- Torticollis
- Plagiocephaly
- Altered gait pattern
- Delayed gross motor development
- And many others
If you notice any of the following behaviors:
- your child keeps his or her head turned or tilted to one side
- your child does not tolerate tummy time well between 0 and 3 months of age
- your child does not roll after 7 months
- your child does not sit without support after 8 months
- your child does not crawl after 8 months
- your child does not walk after 16 months
- your child does not run or jump after 2 years
- your child has difficulties with balance and coordination
- your child has an abnormal gait
- your child always sits in the "W" position
This issue can be addressed by consulting a pediatric physiotherapist, who will provide you with a personalized treatment plan and a home exercise program to help get your baby back on track and prevent future problems.