What to expect from paediatric physiotherapy for Perthes disease

Perthes disease affects the developing hip, so the therapist checks walking, hip range of motion, muscle strength and how activities affect symptoms. Sessions may use playful movement, stretching and strengthening suited to your child's age. The programme is adjusted as comfort and movement change; it does not force a painful range.

Your child may be advised to limit impact activities such as running or jumping for a period, while continuing safer movement recommended by the clinical team. The aim is to maintain useful hip motion and everyday independence during treatment.

Help your child practise the agreed home exercises calmly and consistently. Record which movements cause discomfort, stiffness or limping, and share this at appointments. Use the activity limits provided by the orthopaedic team, and ask the therapist how school, stairs, swimming or play should be adapted.

Contact the treating team if pain, limping or stiffness is clearly worsening, if your child cannot put weight through the leg, or if an exercise repeatedly causes distress. Seek urgent medical help after a significant injury, or when severe pain is accompanied by fever or a child who appears very unwell.

Ask which activities are currently safe, how often exercises should be done, and what signs mean the plan needs changing. Clarify how progress will be monitored and whether school staff need written movement or sports guidance.