Paediatric Physiotherapy
C.P children, Muscular Dystrophy, Delayed milestones
Pediatric physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping children with various conditions, including cerebral palsy (C.P), muscular dystrophy, and delayed milestones. Here’s how physiotherapy can assist children with these conditions:
Cerebral Palsy (C.P):
Cerebral Palsy (C.P):
- Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone. Physiotherapy aims to improve motor function, mobility, and independence in children with C.P.
- Physiotherapists use various techniques such as stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, and balance training to address muscle stiffness, weakness, and coordination difficulties.
- Specific exercises are tailored to the individual needs of each child, taking into account their functional abilities and limitations.
Muscular Dystrophy:
- Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Physiotherapy aims to slow down the progression of muscle weakness, maintain function, and improve overall quality of life.
- Gentle stretching exercises help prevent contractures and maintain flexibility in affected muscles.
- Strengthening exercises targeting specific muscle groups can help improve muscle strength and endurance.
- Aquatic therapy (hydrotherapy) may be beneficial for children with muscular dystrophy as the buoyancy of water reduces the stress on muscles and joints while allowing for resistance training.
- Assistive devices such as orthotics, braces, and mobility aids may be prescribed to support weakened muscles and improve mobility.
Delayed Milestones:
- Delayed milestones refer to the slower than expected development of motor skills, such as crawling, walking, and running, in children. Physiotherapy aims to promote optimal motor development and improve functional abilities.
- Physiotherapists assess the child’s motor skills and identify areas of delay or difficulty.
- Developmental activities and exercises are prescribed to stimulate motor development and encourage the acquisition of age-appropriate milestones.
- Parent education and training are essential components of pediatric physiotherapy, as parents play a crucial role in supporting their child’s development through home exercises and activities.
- Early intervention is key in addressing delayed milestones, as it can help minimize the impact of developmental delays on a child’s long-term development and independence.