Physiotherapist

A physiotherapist or physical therapist provides physical rehabilitation and pain relief to those with ailments, injuries or in the case of some children assist with additional need requirements such as low muscle tone, etc.

A physiotherapist will assess a child’s physical abilities and needs and from there diagnose their problems or areas of need and develop plan of treatment according to their needs.

Physiotherapy intervention’s main aim is to assist and maximise physical recovery.

Physiotherapy minimises the effects of any altered movement patterns on the muscles, bones and joints of a growing child. They work to improve a child’s movement abilities through the use of methods such as movement training, exercise, stretching, motivation, adapted equipment, and education. Part of their care includes the prevention of injuries.

Physiotherapists have studied areas including anatomy, neuroscience, physiology & child development to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of children with physical challenges including slow or poorly-controlled motor development, disabilities and injuries.

Paediatric Physiotherapists are trained particularly to work with children and adolescents.

Assess the child for their specific needs.

They help the family understand the child’s need and teach parents (or carers) the skills, tools and provide the information to build and develop a child’s ability to perform everyday tasks.

Devise a individualised program to suit the child’s needs. The program may involve the use of balance, strength and co-ordination activities, toys, games or other special equipment depending upon the need.

They give advice regarding footwear or equipment to improve the child’s skills and function.

Depending on the assessment and/or the child’s needs they may work in conjunction with other health professionals to meet all the child’s needs in a thorough and comprehensive, collaborative way.

Assist with transitions from hospital to home and return to crèche, kindy or school, etc. A physiotherapist will work in conjunction with the child, the family, and other health care workers and teachers.

Monitor the child’s progress and alter the program as the child improves, develops and grows.

• A child with an acquired brain injury.
• If a child has complained about pain in their body. Most often it is pains in their legs, shoulders, arms and/or back.
• If a child has arthritis.
• In cases of asthma.
• If the child has breathing difficulties.
• If they have muscle weakness, muscle strength or control.
• Reduced mobility, balance and coordination.
• If they have been referred by their Dr.
• Decreased fitness.
• If they are recovering from an injury.
• If they have a developmental delay.
• If they have a physical development delay.

All physiotherapists in Australia are required by law to be registered.

A physiotherapist can only register if they have graduated a university degree in physiotherapy or health sciences with a physiotherapy course.