Pediatric Physiotherapy
Movement is a very important part of growth and development as it allows children to explore their environment, learn new skills, and grow physically and emotionally.
However, many movement difficulties and related developmental issues can keep children from reaching their full potential and participating in life. Pediatric physiotherapy can be helpful in this regard. It is a niche practice in the field of physiotherapy that focuses on children.
At Pediatric Urgent Care, our experienced pediatric physiotherapists provide habilitation and rehabilitation services to help children achieve the optimal physical form and participate fully in daily life.
Who Is a Pediatric Physiotherapist?
A pediatric physiotherapist specializes in assessing and treating conditions that may affect healthy child development or movement in babies and children.
From newborn babies to young adults, anyone can benefit from pediatric physiotherapy to increase their range of motion and overcome other developmental issues, particularly those related to movement difficulties.
Why See a Pediatric Physiotherapist
A pediatric physiotherapist can help with several kinds of movement disorders and motion issues. They also provide habilitation and rehabilitation services. Therefore, it is advisable to see a pediatric physiotherapist if your child experiences any of the following conditions.
Gait / Walking Problems
Pediatric physiotherapists can help children who struggle to walk or experience gait problems that affect their regular walking pattern. Gait problems may develop for several reasons, including external injuries, underlying health conditions, movement or posture-related issues, etc.
A pediatric physiotherapist can help overcome these issues to modify gait with mirror training, balance training, strength exercise, and other modalities. Some common gait problems include:
- Tiptoe walking
- Out-toeing gait
- In-toeing gait
- Limping
- Sensory gait
- Parkinsonian gait
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Children over the age of three may develop pelvic floor dysfunction, which may lead to problems , such as bedwetting, daytime wetting, dysfunctional voiding, constipation, toilet avoidance, etc.
A pediatric physiotherapist can help address these conditions through pediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy. It generally includes modalities like manual therapy, behavioral modification, strength-enhancing exercises, etc.
The pediatric therapist works closely with children, families, and other pediatric healthcare providers to treat pelvic floor dysfunction. Some common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction include:
- Muscle spasm in the pelvis
- Pressure or pain in the rectum
- Constipation
- Pain during bowel movement
- Fecal incontinence
Lower Limb Injuries and Conditions
Lower limb injuries and pain may affect feet, ankles, knees, and even hips. These injuries can be very debilitating and lead to other problems, such as gait issues. Pediatric physiotherapists are skilled at treating acute and chronic injuries and conditions, including the following
- Bone fractures
- Plantar fasciitis
- Metatarsalgia
- Uneven limb length
- Flat feet
- Lower back pain
- Knee pain
- Sports injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Joint problems
Contact Us Today
Remember, early intervention and targeted physiotherapy can go a long way in helping your child lead a happy, healthy, and independent life. If you are looking for an experienced pediatric physiotherapist, contact Pediatric Urgent Care today at 905-366-4441 to book an appointment.