Why a specialised children’s physiotherapist?

A child’s body is different to an adult’s in many ways. A specialised children’s physiotherapist is qualified and experienced to understand and treat these differences.

Children’s musculo-skeletal systems are developing rapidly through growth, “growth spurts” and effects of puberty. Different soft tissue structures and bones lengthen at varying rates thereby causing muscle imbalances, altered postures and biomechanics. This results in associated pain and potential habitual poor posture and asymmetrical gait that lead to longer-term problems.

An understanding of normal movement is essential to address a child’s developmental needs.

Mechanisms and types of injury and childhood conditions are very different, as are healing times.

Children are at risk of longer-term injury, as they do not feel pain in the same way as adults. Early intervention and full rehabilitation of injuries is therefore imperative.

In all areas, children are not just “small adults”. Throughout development from babies to teenagers they are constantly growing and developing – physically, emotionally and intellectually.

A physiotherapist working with children needs to be sensitive to their needs, gain their trust and confidence and incorporate fun and education into treatment sessions to gain compliance. In addition to being aware of the family’s needs and lifestyle.

A physiotherapist treating children therefore requires specialist knowledge and experience and one who enjoys the involvement with children and their families.