Is physiotherapy suitable for children?

A child who exhibits difficulty in gross motor function is at a serious disadvantage as he/she is limited in exploring his/her environment. This ultimately affects his physical as well as intellectual development. Such a child should be brought to a physiotherapist as early as possible so that any deficits can be corrected. Physiotherapists who specialise in the treatment of children with motor dysfunction are known as pediatric therapists. They are well trained in the anatomy and physiology of children and can recognise deficits in motor function at any age of a child’s development.

Pediatric therapists will first perform an assessment on the child to determine range of motion, muscle strength and quality of movement. The child may have been born with a congenital deficit which would lead to a delay in achieving developmental milestones. In another instance, the child may not have a deficit, but the physiotherapist can advise parents on appropriate footwear, toys and games and even certain types of play which can aid or enhance the overall development of the child. As your child grows older, you may wish to consult a physiotherapist concerning involving your child in sport, ways of maintaining or achieving proper weight and even choosing a backpack.

Physiotherapy clinics for children are designed with equipment that makes the child want to get on them. Therefore the child will be more inclined to perform exercises than at a doctor’s office or gym. Pediatric physiotherapists are themselves trained in the right approach to set both the children and parents at ease. Early intervention by a physiotherapist can prevent problems in posture and/or gait from occurring later on, correct deficits in the growing child and help the parents cope with care of a seriously disabled child. Overall, physiotherapy is not just suitable but necessary for children.

Photo credit: sixintheworld.