https://advantagehealth.net.au/paediatric-physiotherapy/what-do-paediatric-physiotherapists-do/
When most people think of physiotherapy, they imagine sports injuries or adults recovering from surgery. But physiotherapy isn’t just for grown-ups. In fact, paediatric physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping babies, children, and teens reach their full physical potential.
From delays in motor development to complex neurological conditions, paediatric physiotherapists are trained to support a wide range of needs—with a gentle, family-centered approach.
In this article, we’ll explore what paediatric physiotherapy is, who it helps, and how it can support your child’s development at every stage.
What Is Paediatric Physiotherapy?
Paediatric physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on the physical development, movement, and function of infants, children, and adolescents. The goal is to help each child improve strength, coordination, balance, posture, and mobility, enabling them to participate more fully in everyday life—at home, at school, and in play.
Unlike adult physiotherapy, treatment for children is always age-appropriate, play-based, and tailored to the child’s unique needs.
Who Can Benefit from Paediatric Physiotherapy?
Paediatric physiotherapists work with children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers, with a wide range of conditions. These may include:
🧠 Neurological Conditions
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Acquired brain injuries
- Developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
🦴 Musculoskeletal Conditions
- Flat feet, knock knees, or other alignment issues
- Juvenile arthritis
- Sports injuries
- Fractures or post-surgical rehabilitation
🚼 Developmental Delays
- Late crawling, sitting, or walking
- Low muscle tone (hypotonia)
- Poor balance or coordination
- Toe-walking
💨 Cardiorespiratory Conditions
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis
- Congenital heart defects (post-surgical rehabilitation)
🎓 Other Functional Challenges
- Difficulty keeping up with peers in physical activities
- Poor posture or fatigue
- Problems with motor planning
Early intervention is key. Even if your child doesn’t have a formal diagnosis, a physiotherapy assessment can offer peace of mind—or help catch issues before they become more serious.
What Does a Paediatric Physio Do?
Every child is different, and so is their physiotherapy plan. After a detailed assessment, a paediatric physiotherapist may work on areas like:
- Gross motor skills (e.g., crawling, walking, jumping)
- Strengthening weak muscles
- Improving coordination and balance
- Posture and gait correction
- Stretching tight muscles or joints
- Respiratory therapy (e.g., airway clearance techniques)
- Pain management
- Parent education and home programs
Sessions often look like play—but behind the fun are carefully designed activities that build confidence and movement skills in meaningful ways.
What to Expect at a Paediatric Physio Appointment
A typical first appointment involves:
- Assessment: The physiotherapist will observe your child’s movement, ask about developmental history, and discuss any concerns.
- Goal Setting: Together with you and your child, they’ll create goals that are realistic, functional, and motivating.
- Treatment Plan: This might involve weekly sessions, a home exercise program, or collaboration with schools, pediatricians, or occupational therapists.
Appointments may include obstacle courses, games, balance activities, stretching, or strength training—all tailored to your child’s age and ability.
How Paediatric Physiotherapy Supports Parents
Physiotherapy isn’t just for the child—it’s for the whole family. A key part of paediatric physio is parent education and empowerment. You’ll learn:
- How to support your child’s development at home
- Simple activities to improve movement and coordination
- How to manage fatigue or prevent injury
- What to watch for as your child grows
Having the right information helps you feel more confident in your child’s journey—and gives them the best possible chance to thrive.
Final Thoughts
Every child deserves the opportunity to move, explore, and engage in the world around them. Paediatric physiotherapy helps children overcome physical challenges, build strength, and gain independence—all through personalized care, expert knowledge, and lots of encouragement.
Whether your child has a diagnosed condition, is recovering from an injury, or just seems a little behind in development, a paediatric physiotherapist can help you find the best path forward.