"Physical Therapy is a health profession whose primary purpose is the promotion of optimal human health and function through the application of scientific principles to prevent, identify, assess, correct or alleviate acute or prolonged dysfunction".
-American Physical Therapy Association.
Paediatric Physical Therapy:
Paediatric Physical Therapy is a speciality in Physical Therapy which deals with the management of developmental, congenital, neuromuscular and acquired disorders.
Early years of development is very crucial in a child's life. Paediatric Physical Therapy includes examining, evaluating, assessing the child and planning the treatment accordingly.
Conditions:
Paediatric Physiotherapists play an important role in the following conditions:
Developmental Delay
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Spina bifida
Spinal muscular atrophy
Traumatic head injuries
Muscular dystrophy
High risk infant
Haemophilia
Balance disorders
Cancer
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Post- orthopaedic surgeries
Idiopathic toe walking
Scoliosis
Torticollis
Cystic fibrosis
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Therapy Goals:
To improve gross motor skills
To improve fine motor skills
To improve range of motion, strength and endurance
To improve child's posture
To improve mobility and balance
To help the child be independent in activities in daily life
Evaluation:
Assessment includes history, observation of movement and posture, palpation, examination which is followed by planning of treatment and therapeutic handling of children.
Assessment may include the child's
Physical state
Quality of movement
Strength and endurance
Postural tone
Gross and fine motor evaluation
Coordination
Functional activities
Balance
Musculoskeletal assessment
Gait
Need of assistive devices, orthotics, and equipment.
Therapeutic Intervention:
The therapist may use many tools to achieve the desired goals. The Interventions employed at our center include;
Range of motion exercises
Exercises for strength and endurance
Stretching
Mobilisation
Breathing exercises and retraining
Relaxation
Neuro developmental Therapy
Aerobic conditioning
Functional training
Postural Training
Balance Exercises
Exercises to improve coordination
Therapeutc massage
Hydrotherapy
Ball Exercises
Neuromuscular re-education
Taping
Myo-Fascial techniques
Gait Training
Cardiac and Pulmonary exercises
Education to Parents:
Handling and positioning the child at home
Home Exercises
Advice regarding corrective footwear, assistive aids, equipments etc.
Referrel to other medical professionals, when need arises
Helping the child to achieve his/her maximum physical potential is our aim.
