Children may face physical challenges that affect movement, balance, or muscle strength. Physiotherapy helps by using exercises and techniques to improve mobility and coordination. Early support can make daily activities easier and more comfortable. Common conditions include muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and posture-related concerns. Many families seek therapy to help their child move with greater ease. This article looks at common conditions treated by pediatric physiotherapy.
Cerebral palsy:
Cerebral palsy affects muscle tone, posture, and movement. Some children may have stiff muscles, while others experience difficulty with coordination. Physiotherapy includes stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises to improve mobility and independence. Therapists may also suggest assistive devices to support movement.
Developmental delays:
Some children take longer to reach movement milestones such as crawling, sitting, or walking. Physiotherapy introduces exercises that encourage muscle control and coordination. Activities like guided movement, balance training, and strengthening exercises help children gain confidence in their physical abilities.
Muscular dystrophy:
Muscular dystrophy affects muscle strength and function over time. Therapy focuses on gentle exercises that maintain flexibility and movement. Low-impact activities help reduce stiffness, improve balance, and provide support for daily tasks. Therapists may also recommend strategies to prevent strain on weak muscles.
Torticollis:
Torticollis causes tightness in the neck muscles, making it difficult for a child to turn their head. Physiotherapy includes gentle stretching exercises to improve movement and reduce discomfort. Positioning techniques are also introduced to encourage the child to move their head freely in different directions.
Hypermobility:
Hypermobility means that joints move more than usual, sometimes leading to discomfort or difficulty with stability. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening the muscles around the joints to provide better support. Balance exercises and controlled movements help improve coordination and reduce the risk of strain.
Post-surgical rehabilitation:
After surgery, children may need physiotherapy to regain movement and strength. Therapists guide them through gentle exercises to restore function and prevent stiffness. A structured rehabilitation plan helps children recover safely and effectively.
Pediatric physiotherapy helps children with different conditions improve movement and coordination. Techniques such as stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises provide support for conditions like cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and muscular dystrophy. Therapy sessions focus on making movement easier, allowing children to participate more comfortably in daily activities.