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Children face unique physical challenges as they grow, and when conditions arise that affect their ability to move or develop properly, it can impact not only their physical health but their confidence and independence, too. That’s where pediatric physiotherapy comes in. With the right interventions, kids can build strength, improve mobility, and gain the skills they need to thrive. Our pediatric physiotherapy in Edmonton helps children overcome physical challenges, improve motor skills, and reach their full potential.

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5 Common Conditions Treated in Pediatric Physiotherapy

1. Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that impacts movement, muscle tone, and posture. It stems from brain damage or abnormal development, usually occurring before, during, or shortly after birth. Children with CP often struggle with motor control, muscle stiffness, and coordination issues. These challenges can affect walking, sitting, and daily tasks like eating or dressing.

2. Developmental Delays

Developmental delays occur when a child doesn’t meet typical developmental milestones at the expected age. These delays can affect motor skills, speech, cognition, or emotional development. Motor delays, in particular, may include challenges in crawling, walking, or sitting, preventing kids from exploring and interacting with their environment as their peers do.

3. Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine develops an abnormal curve. While mild cases might not cause immediate symptoms, severe cases can lead to noticeable physical changes, back pain, and discomfort. In children, scoliosis typically appears during growth spurts and, if left untreated, can progress and potentially lead to mobility issues.

4. Torticollis

Torticollis occurs when a baby’s neck muscles become tight, causing the head to tilt to one side. This can result from positioning in the womb or spending too much time lying in the same position after birth. Babies with torticollis may struggle to move their heads freely, which can delay motor development.

5. Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a congenital condition where the spinal cord doesn’t develop properly, leading to varying degrees of disability. Depending on the severity, children may experience mobility challenges, muscle weakness, or paralysis. Without proper intervention, these issues can affect a child’s ability to walk or perform other physical activities.

Key Techniques in Pediatric Physiotherapy for Treating Conditions

Our pediatric physiotherapy in Edmonton supports children with a variety of conditions. Below are some of the techniques we use to address these challenges:

Manual Therapy Techniques

Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques to promote mobility and reduce pain.

• Soft Tissue Mobilization: Releases muscle tension and improves flexibility, especially in children with cerebral palsy who often experience muscle spasticity.
• Joint Mobilization: Improves joint movement and posture, particularly for kids with scoliosis or developmental delays.
• Myofascial Release: Targets tight fascia, helping children with cerebral palsy or spina bifida move more freely.
• Trigger Point Therapy: Releases “knots” or tight muscle areas that cause pain or restrict movement.

Exercises Used for Treating Conditions

Exercises are central to our therapy, helping to build strength, coordination, and motor skills.

1. Strengthening Exercises:
   These exercises build muscle power and improve functional mobility, especially for children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscle weakness.
   • Sit-to-Stand: Strengthens leg muscles and improves balance.
     • How to Perform: The child sits on the edge of a chair with feet flat on the ground. They push through their feet and legs to stand, using their core for stabilization, then lower back down slowly. Assistance is provided as needed.
2. Balance and Coordination Exercises:
   These exercises improve motor control and posture, benefiting children with scoliosis, developmental delays, and other conditions.
   • Balance Board: Enhances core stability and postural alignment.
     • How to Perform: The child stands on a balance board, shifting weight side to side to maintain balance. This activity can be turned into a game for added engagement.
3. Play-Based Exercises:
   Play-based exercises keep children engaged while developing motor skills naturally.
   • Animal Walks: Improve strength, coordination, and balance.
     • How to Perform: The child mimics animals, like crawling like a bear or hopping like a frog. These movements target different muscles while keeping the activity fun.

Modalities

We use various modalities to support muscle function, manage pain, and improve movement.

• Laser Therapy: Reduces inflammation and stimulates healing in children with soft tissue injuries or muscle weakness.
• Electrical Stimulation (E-Stim): Activates weak muscles in kids with cerebral palsy, encouraging muscle contraction and improving function.
• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): Manages pain by sending low-voltage electrical currents to the affected area.

Bracing or Taping

Bracing and taping provide support, correct posture, and reduce strain on muscles and joints.

• Bracing: Custom-fitted braces for scoliosis help align the spine and prevent further curvature.
• Kinesiology Taping: Facilitates muscle activation and reduces pain without limiting movement.
• Neck Bracing: For severe torticollis, soft neck braces encourage proper head alignment while paired with stretching techniques.

Overcoming Challenges, One Step at a Time

Pediatric physiotherapy in Edmonton helps children improve their mobility, strength, and confidence. At Realign Pro Physiotherapy, we’re committed to helping children overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Early intervention and personalized therapy plans can have a positive impact on a child’s quality of life, fostering independence and growth.

Contact us today to book an assessment and learn how our specialized physiotherapy for kids can support your child’s development and well-being. Let’s work together to help your child thrive!

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