Paediatric Physiotherapy

Paediatric Physiotherapy refers to a specialised field that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to movement and development of children 0-18. Paediatric Physiotherapy treatment varies greatly and may last the entire lifetime of a child, or it may only be temporary during a baby's developmental stages. As children grow, their needs change, and so will their treatment plan.

​

The goal of Paediatric Physiotherapy is to help children with their movement and strength, in order to play participate to their full potential. Movement allows babies and children to explore their bodies and learn how they work. A Paediatric Physiotherapist will assess via observation and specialised assessments, to determine whether your child will benefit from Physiotherapy.

​

The treatment plan involves a collaborative approach, and is generally a play-based approach, to ensure your child is fully engaged to reach their maximum potential.

​

When would you need to consult a Paediatric Physiotherapist? 

• Expected milestones are not being reached (For example, not rolling by 9 months, not pulling to stand by 12 months, not walking by 18 months)

• Movements are asymmetrical, and they prefer to use one side of their body

• A baby feels floppy or stiff

• Difficulty tolerating tummy time

• Preference to turn their head one side

• Tight neck muscles (Torticollis)

• Your baby has a flat spot on their head (Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, Scaphocephaly)

• Concerns with walking pattern (For example, toe walking)

• Clumsiness when climbing, running, jumping and riding a bike

• Diagnosed Orthopaedic conditions such as talipes, hip dysplasia, in-toeing/out-toeing 

• Knee or ankle pain, or a sporting injury

• A diagnosed condition/disability and you may have NDIS funding

​