Hello, my name is Cindy. I live in the suburbs of Sydney with my family. Although I would occasionally visit the doctor when I was feeling too good or if one of the children had a cold. However, my whole view on doctors changed when I found a lump on breast last year. I went to my GP in a panic, but he was a real sweetie. He calmed me down and explained he would refer me for a further investigation. Thankfully, they caught my cancer early and after some treatment, I made a full recovery. Since this close call, I have taken a keen interest in everything health related.
Physiotherapy isn't just for adults nursing sports injuries or dealing with chronic pain. It's also an essential part of many children's health journeys. Children are always on the move, and sometimes they need a little extra help to reach their full potential. Here are five signs that your child may benefit from seeing a paediatric physiotherapist in Australia.
1. Developmental Delays
If your child isn't hitting certain developmental milestones, such as sitting, crawling or walking, at the same time as their peers, it may be a cause for concern. However, don't panic right away. Every child develops at their own pace, and slight delays are not uncommon. But if your child consistently lags behind, physiotherapy might be an effective intervention. Paediatric physiotherapists can create personalised exercises and routines to help your child improve their motor skills and strength.
2. Difficulty With Balance And Coordination
If your child often trips, struggles with stairs, or has difficulty performing tasks that require coordination, such as tying shoelaces or buttoning up shirts, it might be worth consulting a physiotherapist. Balance and coordination challenges can impact a child's self-esteem and participation in play or school activities. Physiotherapy can help address these issues, improving their skills and boosting their confidence.
3. Poor Posture
Kids these days spend a lot of time on screens, whether for virtual learning or entertainment. This can lead to a habit of slouching or improper sitting positions, causing postural problems. Bad posture can lead to back and neck pain, muscle fatigue and breathing difficulties. A paediatric physiotherapist can teach your child exercises and strategies to correct their posture and promote a healthier lifestyle.
4. Frequent Pain Or Injuries
If your child often complains of joint or muscle pain, or they're frequently getting injured, it might be a sign that something isn't right. Persistent pain can be a symptom of conditions like juvenile arthritis or growing pains. Meanwhile, recurrent injuries might point to underlying issues like muscle imbalance or hypermobility. A physiotherapist can diagnose and manage these conditions, helping your child feel better and preventing future injuries.
5. Difficulty With Fine Motor Skills
Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscles in the hands and fingers. If your child struggles with tasks such as holding a pencil, buttoning their shirt or using utensils, this might indicate a need for paediatric physiotherapy. These challenges can affect a child's school performance and daily life. A physiotherapist can provide tailored activities and strategies to enhance your child's dexterity and hand-eye coordination, making these tasks more manageable.
Recognising these signs early on can make a significant difference in a child's life. So if you've noticed any of these issues in your child, consider consulting a paediatric physiotherapist. They're experts in assessing and treating children, ensuring they grow, play and learn in the healthiest way possible.
Contact a physiotherapist for more information.
Share23 June 2023
