What does paediatric physiotherapy treat?

A paediatric physiotherapist may support a child with walking or running difficulty, reduced balance, weak muscles, stiff joints, delayed motor skills, or pain during activity. Treatment can be part of care for bow legs, knock knees, Perthes disease, Osgood-Schlatter Disease, Sever's Disease, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The therapist considers the child's age, interests, school routine, movement pattern, and goals. Sessions may use play, strengthening, stretching, balance tasks, hands-on techniques, and advice for home and school.

The first visit usually looks at posture, joint movement, muscle control, walking, balance, and how symptoms affect everyday activities. The therapist then sets practical goals, such as climbing stairs, returning to sport, or joining playground activities more comfortably. Parents and children may learn a short home programme that fits into normal routines. Progress is reviewed and exercises are adjusted as the child grows or symptoms change.

Arrange an assessment when a child persistently limps, avoids play, loses a skill, struggles with stairs, or reports recurring pain that changes activity or sleep. Seek prompt medical care for severe pain after injury, inability to bear weight, a hot swollen joint, fever with joint symptoms, or sudden weakness. A physiotherapist can coordinate with the child's doctor when examination suggests another evaluation is needed.

Ask what may be affecting the child's movement, whether physiotherapy should start now, and which activities are suitable. Discuss the goals for home exercises, signs of overexertion, school or sports adjustments, and when the plan should be reviewed.