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Children's physiotherapy
What is pediatric physiotherapy?
Pediatric physiotherapy is a specialization within physiotherapy that focuses on the total physical development of children, from early childhood to adolescence. It addresses not only motor challenges, but also the broader context, such as neurological, musculoskeletal and development-related conditions that impact children's physical capabilities. Pediatric physiotherapists use specialized knowledge and skills to help children improve their motor skills through play, movement therapy and specific exercises. The goal is not only physical improvement, but also to promote participation in daily activities and improve the quality of life of children and their environment.
How did we arrive at this knowledge?
Prior to specializing in pediatric physiotherapy, a pediatric physiotherapist first completed a four-year physiotherapy course. During this training you will learn everything about muscles, bones and joints, suitable for every age. You will learn about the human recovery mechanism and which factors can have a positive or negative influence on this. You will learn how, as a physiotherapist, you can treat injuries with different treatment techniques and how important communication is as part of this treatment.
After exploring general physiotherapy, we learn how to understand and support children's growth and development during the three-year master's program in pediatric physiotherapy. We learn to analyze motor movement behavior and which facets can influence this. This way we can support children both physically and cognitively so that they can move, play and grow up again as we prefer.
Method
The child, with a problem
We first look at the child and then of course also at the problem. This means that depending on the request for help, the child will be looked at from a broad perspective. The entire development of a child contains more than just the motor aspect. If the problem is motor or physical in nature, we can work on it together. If the problem is associated with other development components, we work closely with other experts, such as speech therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists or other healthcare providers, where necessary. In this way, a broader approach can be offered that covers all aspects of the developing child. This not only ensures an efficient and effective approach to the current problem, but also prevents possible problems in the future.
Every child is unique and follows their own path. We adapt and support where necessary.
How do we proceed?
When we start working with the child, we first want to know what exactly is going on. This helps us better understand how we can best help and provides insight into what research we can perform on the child. Once all information has been collected, a treatment plan is drawn up in consultation with the child and parents. During the treatment process, the child will practice in a playful manner to stimulate motor development. It is important that parents are involved in this process and know what we do and why we do it. This way, therapy can be continued in a home situation. If the child has pain, tension or other physical complaints, hands-on examination and treatment will be carried out. Of course, we also approach the child in a way that suits him or her.
Who stays informed?
In order to ensure that treatment is as effective and efficient as possible, it may be important to inform other parties involved, such as teachers, gym teachers or other medical professionals. In addition to regular evaluation reports to the referring doctor, we are also happy to inform these other parties involved. Of course, this only happens with parental permission. (Read our privacy policy here)
Cooperation
Who do we like to work with?
As described earlier, the overall development of children does not only consist of motor development. In addition to problems with movement, children can also experience problems in the areas of cognitive development, social-emotional development, language and speech development, sensory processing, behavioral problems and attention and concentration problems. If complaints do not appear to be solely motor in nature and both our practice and parents see the added value of collaboration with other practitioners, a collaboration can be started with parental consent. Other practitioners include general practitioners, psychologists, orthopedagogues, speech therapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists or child/youth doctors. Collaboration can provide a lot of insight, which can reduce concerns about the child. In this way, the child's development can proceed in the most relaxed manner possible.
Communication
Communication, an indispensable part
At lief Paramedical Children's Center we attach great importance to open communication. You can trust that we take an open and honest approach. Conversely, we would also like to encourage parents to speak freely about any concerns they may have. Your feedback is important because it allows us to tailor the treatment to the needs of you and your child. Our aim is to ensure that your child receives the best possible care and guidance and your direct input is of course invaluable.