Understanding Paediatric Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: A Guide for Parents

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Introduction

Urinary and bowel incontinence can be challenging for both kids and their caregivers. As parents, it’s natural to be concerned about what is considered “normal.” In this guide, we’ll shed light on typical bathroom behaviors based on age and explore how paediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy can be a game-changer in addressing issues related to incontinence.

Normal Bathroom Frequencies:

Understanding typical bathroom habits for different age groups is crucial. 

  • By the age of 5, most kids achieve full bladder control with 4-7 pees a day.
  • Nighttime waking for bathroom visits should decrease by this age, and dry nights usually follow within six months of gaining daytime bladder control.
  • By 12 years old, children should average 4-6 pees per day
  • Regular bowel movements should occur daily to every other day, with stool looking like long squishy snakes.

Urgency in Kids:

Feeling the need to go “RIGHT NOW” is normal until around age 5 or when a child achieves bladder control. If urgency persists, it may indicate overactive bladder muscles or difficulties recognizing early signals from their body.

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help:

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy tailored to children’s unique needs. At PlayWorks Physio, we focus on empowering kids to understand and control their bodies, ultimately restoring confidence in play.

Holistic Approach:

Our holistic approach addresses various factors contributing to incontinence, such as:

  • Muscle Dysfunction: Pelvic floor physiotherapy assesses and corrects weak or overactive pelvic floor muscles to restore control.
  • Posture and Alignment: We use engaging games to correct posture and alignment issues, promoting overall pelvic health.
  • Coordination and Control: Tailored techniques help children coordinate muscles involved in bladder control based on their developmental stage.
  • Behavior: For children with fears or challenges related to the toilet, we collaborate on problem-solving strategies for success.

Customized Treatment:

Treatment plans vary based on each child’s unique needs. Whether it’s working with neurodiverse children or addressing incontinence in elite teenage athletes, our team is dedicated to finding the best solutions for every situation. If your child is having pee or poop accidents outside of the ages listed above or if they are experiencing constipation, we can help. Also, if you have a child who experiences leaks throughout the day, especially with sports or higher impact activities, a pelvic floor physiotherapist can help. To learn more about physiotherapy for kids, click here.

Conclusion:

At PlayWorks Physio, we believe in providing comprehensive support to help children overcome incontinence challenges. Our paediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy aims to enhance the quality of life for kids, empowering them to embrace play with confidence. If you have concerns about leaks, urgency, or constipation, we’re here to help every step of the way. Click here to book a Pelvic Floor Initial Assessment.

Written By: Kate Heays

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Discover the Power of Rehabilitation Assistants at PlayWorks Physio!

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Discover the Power of Rehabilitation Assistants at PlayWorks Physio!

At PlayWorks Physio, we take pride in offering comprehensive care to our young patients. In our pursuit of excellence, our dedicated Rehabilitation Assistants (RAs) play a pivotal role in ensuring that every child receives the highest quality of care.

The PlayWorks Experience

At PlayWorks Physio, we take pride in offering a holistic approach to pediatric physiotherapy. Our Rehabilitation Assistants contribute significantly to this approach in several ways:

  • 1:1 Personalized Care: Our RAs provide individualized, one-on-one sessions, guaranteeing that your child’s unique needs are met with precision and dedication.
  • Bringing Fun into Therapy: With creativity and enthusiasm, our RAs implement the physiotherapist’s plan in ways that actively engage children, ensuring that therapy is a delightful and enjoyable experience.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Busy family life is a reality. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling, making it easier to find a convenient therapy time.
  • Community Outreach: Recognizing that therapy doesn’t always necessitate a clinic visit, our RAs work with children in the familiar and comfortable environment of their own homes and communities.
  • Pool Therapy Expertise: For those who find aquatic therapy beneficial, our RAs play a pivotal role. They assist physiotherapists during pool therapy sessions, helping children build water confidence, strength, and work toward their physiotherapy goals.
  • Biking and Playground Skills: We go beyond traditional therapy by supporting children in acquiring vital life skills like biking and mastering the playground. This promotes independence and self-assurance.

How to Get Started

If you believe your child could benefit from the support of a Rehabilitation Assistant, and are already a patient, we encourage you to discuss this option with your physiotherapist. They will be able to guide you through the process and help you decide if working with an RA is the right choice for your child’s unique needs. If you are not a current patient, please book an Initial Assessment with one of our physiotherapists, prior to working with a Rehab Assistant.

Once you’ve decided to work with a Rehabilitation Assistant, we’ll be delighted to assist you in scheduling your sessions. Our team will ensure that you and your child have a personalized and rewarding experience during your time with PlayWorks Physio.

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Pre-habilitation: Building Strong Foundations for Injury Prevention in Kids

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As parents, we constantly strive to provide the best care and support for our children, ensuring their health and well-being in every way possible. When it comes to their active lifestyles and participation in sports or recreational activities, it’s essential to prioritize injury prevention. In this blog post, we want to shed light on the importance of pre-habilitation (pre-hab) and how it empowers parents in safeguarding their children’s health and promoting an active lifestyle.

Understanding Pre-habilitation for Kids:

Pre-habilitation, or pre-hab, is a proactive approach to injury prevention that focuses on preparing children’s bodies for physical activities. It involves addressing muscle imbalances, improving body awareness, and optimizing movement patterns. By integrating pre-habilitation strategies into our children’s routines, we can equip them with the tools to minimize the risk of injuries and support their physical development.

The Importance of Pre-habilitation for Kids:

  1. Building Strong Foundations: Pre-habilitation helps children develop a solid foundation of strength, flexibility, and coordination. By targeting muscle imbalances and addressing any weaknesses, we can ensure that their bodies are prepared for the demands of sports and physical activities. This foundation sets the stage for improved performance and reduces the risk of injuries resulting from poor mechanics or muscle strains.
  2. Enhancing Body Awareness: Children are constantly growing and discovering their bodies’ capabilities. Pre-habilitation enhances their body awareness, enabling them to understand their limits, recognize warning signs of discomfort, and make adjustments to prevent injuries. With improved body awareness, our little ones can move with confidence and participate in activities more safely.
  3. Nurturing a Lifelong Active Lifestyle: By instilling pre-habilitation practices in our children’s lives, we lay the foundation for a lifelong commitment to an active and healthy lifestyle. Teaching them about injury prevention and the importance of pre-hab empowers them to make conscious choices, prioritize their well-being, and stay active for years to come.

How PlayWorks Physio Supports Pre-habilitation:

At PlayWorks Physio, our specialized paediatric physiotherapy clinic, we are dedicated to supporting families in their journey of injury prevention and promoting healthy physical development for children. Our team of experienced physiotherapists is trained in pre-habilitation techniques specifically tailored for kids.

When you bring your child to PlayWorks Physio, we take a personalized approach to pre-habilitation, assessing their unique needs and designing individualized exercise programs. We work closely with you and your child to improve muscle imbalances, enhance body awareness, and provide guidance on injury prevention strategies. By partnering with us, you can ensure that your child is equipped with the tools to thrive in their activities while staying safe and injury-free.

Conclusion:

As parents, we play a vital role in safeguarding our children’s health and well-being. By understanding the importance of pre-habilitation and integrating it into their lives, we empower them to enjoy an active lifestyle while minimizing the risk of injuries. At PlayWorks Physio, we are here to support you and your child on this journey, providing specialized paediatric physiotherapy and expertise in pre-habilitation techniques.

Let’s prioritize injury prevention for kids, nurture their physical development, and empower them to lead healthy and active lives. Together, we can create a generation of strong, resilient, and injury-free kids.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about pre-habilitation for your child, feel free to reach out to us at PlayWorks Physio. We’re here to support you every step of the way. If you would like to book an assessment, click here.

 

FAQ’s about Pre-Hab:

  1. How does pre-habilitation differ from rehabilitation? Pre-habilitation focuses on proactive measures taken before an injury occurs, with the goal of preventing injuries and optimizing physical function. It involves exercises, activities, and strategies to strengthen and prepare the body for potential stresses and challenges. Rehabilitation, on the other hand, is the process of restoring function and recovering from an injury or condition that has already occurred.
  2. At what age should pre-habilitation for injury prevention begin? Pre-habilitation can begin at any age, but it is especially beneficial to start during early childhood and continue through adolescence. As kids grow and engage in various physical activities, pre-habilitation helps promote proper movement patterns, muscle balance, and body awareness, setting a foundation for injury prevention throughout their developmental years.
  3. Can pre-habilitation help prevent specific types of injuries in kids? Yes, pre-habilitation can help prevent a wide range of injuries in kids. It focuses on strengthening the muscles, improving flexibility, enhancing coordination, and promoting proper movement mechanics. By addressing muscle imbalances, optimizing body mechanics, and enhancing overall physical fitness, pre-habilitation can reduce the risk of common injuries such as sprains, strains, overuse injuries, and musculoskeletal imbalances.
  4. Are there any specific precautions or considerations when implementing pre-habilitation for children? When implementing pre-habilitation for children, it is important to consider their age, developmental stage, individual abilities, and any specific health conditions or previous injuries. It is recommended to consult with a paediatric physiotherapist or healthcare professional who specializes in working with children to develop a personalized pre-habilitation program tailored to their specific needs and goals.
  5. Are there any signs or symptoms that indicate the need for pre-habilitation? Signs that may indicate the need for pre-habilitation include recurring aches or pains during or after physical activity, limited range of motion, muscle imbalances, poor coordination, frequent injuries, or participation in high-risk sports or activities. If a child demonstrates any of these signs or experiences difficulties in movement or physical performance, it may be beneficial to consider pre-habilitation as part of their injury prevention strategy.
  6. Can pre-habilitation be beneficial for children involved in both sports and non-sports activities? Absolutely! Pre-habilitation can benefit children engaged in both sports and non-sports activities. Whether it’s participating in organized sports, recreational activities, or simply engaging in regular physical play, pre-habilitation helps improve overall physical fitness, movement quality, and injury resilience. It promotes healthy movement patterns, enhances strength and coordination, and reduces the risk of injuries across various activities and daily movements.

 

Written by: Maegan Mak

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Step Into Summer: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Kids’ Footwear

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Introduction:

Summer is here, and it’s time to find the perfect footwear for your little adventurers! At PlayWorks Physio, we know that keeping your kids’ feet comfortable and supported is essential for their summer escapades. So, let’s dive into our ultimate summer footwear guide, packed with tips to ensure happy feet during all the seasonal fun!

  1. Secure Straps for Sandals: When choosing sandals, opt for those with secure straps that keep them firmly in place. Straps around the ankle or over the top of the foot offer extra stability. This ensures that your child’s sandals stay on during their energetic escapades. No more worrying about lost shoes while they explore!
  2. Flexible Soles for Natural Movement: Look for footwear with flexible soles that allow for natural foot movement. A sole that easily bends and flexes mimics the barefoot experience, promoting healthy foot development. Ensure that the flex point of the shoe aligns with where your child’s foot naturally bends. This supports their growing feet while they frolic in the sun.
  3. Right Size Matters: Fit is crucial when it comes to summer footwear. Avoid shoes or sandals that are too big, as they can hinder proper foot movement and cause discomfort. Choose footwear that provides a snug, yet comfortable fit. Remember to leave a little room for growth, but ensure the shoes don’t slide around, disrupting their summer adventures.
  4. Flip Flops: Perfect for Poolside Comfort: Flip flops are a summer favorite, but it’s important to use them wisely. Reserve them for poolside lounging or activities where your child won’t be walking extensively. Flip flops lack the support and stability of other footwear options, making them less suitable for active adventures. Choose comfort over fashion when it comes to flip flops!
  5. Active Adventures Call for Running Shoes: For the active and on-the-go kids, running shoes are always a reliable choice. Opt for lightweight options with flexible soles and breathable materials. These features provide optimal comfort and support for all their energetic pursuits. Running shoes keep their feet protected while they conquer the playground, chase bubbles, or embark on summer explorations.

Conclusion:

As you gear up for a summer filled with outdoor excitement, remember that choosing the right footwear is key to your child’s comfort and foot health. Secure straps, flexible soles, proper fit, and appropriate shoe choices like running shoes or sandals are essential factors to consider. By following these summer footwear tips, you can guarantee happy feet and worry-free fun throughout the sunny season.

However, if your child experiences any foot pain or discomfort during their summer adventures, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at PlayWorks Physio. Our experienced team of paediatric physiotherapists is here to provide expert care and support. Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s foot health. Let’s ensure their summer is filled with endless smiles and pain-free steps!

Wishing you and your little adventurers a summer full of joy, laughter, and endless happy feet!

  • The PlayWorks Physio Team
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Play and Thrive: How Paediatric Physiotherapy at PlayWorks Physio Makes Healing Fun!

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Welcome to PlayWorks Physio, where we know that play is the key to unlocking a child’s full potential! Our paediatric physiotherapy services are all about making therapy sessions fun, engaging, and effective. Say goodbye to boring exercises, because at PlayWorks Physio, we believe that play truly works wonders! So, let’s dive in and explore how our approach to paediatric physiotherapy is different from traditional adult physiotherapy.

Play, Play, Play – It’s How We Roll!

At PlayWorks Physio, we’ve got a secret trick for helping kids heal – play! Our physiotherapists are experts in incorporating play into therapy sessions to make them enjoyable and motivating for kids. We use games, activities, and creative exercises that are tailored to each child’s age, interests, and developmental stage. From building obstacle courses to playing with balls and bubbles, our therapy sessions are like playdates where kids can have a blast while improving their motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination.

Childhood Adventures: From Crawling to Conquering!

At PlayWorks Physio, we understand that every child’s journey is unique. Our paediatric physiotherapy services are designed to address the specific developmental stages and milestones that kids go through, from crawling to conquering new physical challenges. We work closely with parents and caregivers to create a customized treatment plan that takes into consideration their child’s growth, development, and goals. Whether it’s helping a baby learn to crawl, a toddler walk, or a young athlete recover from an injury, our physiotherapists are there to provide expert care and guidance every step of the way.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: We’re In This Together!

At PlayWorks Physio, we believe that teamwork makes the dream work! We work closely with parents and caregivers to create a collaborative and family-centered approach to therapy. We provide education, support, and resources to empower parents and caregivers to actively participate in their child’s therapy at home and in their daily activities. We’re all about building a strong partnership with families to ensure that kids receive the best care possible.

Expert Fun-Makers: Our Physiotherapists Rock!

Our physiotherapists at PlayWorks Physio are not only experts in child development and behaviour, but they’re also expert fun-makers! They know how to engage kids, create a positive environment, and turn therapy sessions into enjoyable adventures. Our physiotherapists have a bag of tricks that includes creative exercises, playful activities, and lots of high-fives to keep kids motivated and excited about their therapy journey. We’re not your typical boring therapy sessions – we’re all about having fun while achieving therapy goals!

So, if you’re looking for a paediatric physiotherapy clinic that knows how to make healing fun, PlayWorks Physio is the place to be! Our play-based approach, child-centered care, family-centered approach, and expert fun-makers are what set us apart. CLICK HERE to join our team and embark on a play-filled adventure towards your child’s optimal physical development and well-being. Let’s play and thrive together!

 

#PlayWorksPhysio #PlayAndThrive #ChildhoodAdventures #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #ExpertFunMakers #PhysiotherapyForKids #PlayTherapyApproach #ChildHealth #FamilyCenteredCare #PaediatricPhysiotherapy #BecausePlayWorks

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Common Injuries in Youth Baseball Players: How Physiotherapy Can Help

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Baseball is a popular sport for many children and teenagers, and while it can be a fun and rewarding activity, it also poses certain risks for injuries. As a paediatric physiotherapy clinic, PlayWorks Physio sees a lot of young baseball players with various injuries. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common injuries in youth baseball players and how physiotherapy can help.

  1. Shoulder injuries

    Shoulder injuries are quite common in young baseball players, especially pitchers. These injuries can be caused by repetitive overhead throwing, which puts a lot of stress on the shoulder joint. Some of the most common shoulder injuries in baseball players include rotator cuff injuries, labral tears, and biceps tendonitis.

  2. Elbow injuries

    Elbow injuries are also common in youth baseball players, especially pitchers. Overuse of the elbow joint can cause pain and inflammation, which can eventually lead to more serious conditions such as Little League elbow or ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries.

  3. Knee injuries

    While not as common as shoulder and elbow injuries, knee injuries are still a risk in youth baseball players. These injuries can be caused by running and sliding on the field. Common knee injuries in baseball players include patellar tendonitis and meniscus tears.

How physiotherapy can help

Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for youth baseball players with injuries. A physiotherapist can assess the injury, provide a diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan that may include a combination of exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound or laser therapy. The goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility and flexibility, and strengthen the affected area to prevent future injuries.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for young baseball players with shoulder injuries. The study found that a physiotherapy program consisting of exercises, manual therapy, and modalities was effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion in young baseball players with rotator cuff injuries.

Another study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that a physiotherapy program consisting of exercises and manual therapy was effective in reducing pain and improving function in young baseball players with UCL injuries.

In conclusion, injuries are a common risk in youth baseball players, especially those who pitch. Shoulder, elbow, and knee injuries are the most common types of injuries seen in young baseball players. Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for these injuries, helping young players reduce pain, improve mobility and flexibility, and prevent future injuries. If your child is a young baseball player who has been injured or if you want to focus on injury prevention, PlayWorks Physio can help! Click here to schedule an assessment.

 

Written by: Maegan Mak

References:

  1. Frangiamore SJ, Lynch TS, Vaughn MD, et al. Physical therapy treatment of adolescent baseball players with symptomatic rotator cuff injury. J Pediatr Orthop. 2016;36(8):814-820. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000000559.
  2. Wilk KE, Reinold MM, Dugas JR, et al. Current concepts in the recognition and treatment of superior labral (SLAP) lesions. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2005;35(5):273-291. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2005.35.5.273.

 

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Physiotherapy for Young Athletes: A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment and Recovery

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What Is Paediatric Physiotherapy?

Welcome to PlayWorks Physio, a paediatric physiotherapy clinic dedicated to helping children reach their full physical potential. We understand that every child is unique and has their own set of physical challenges, which is why we offer specialized physiotherapy services tailored to meet each child’s individual needs. Our services are not limited to children with developmental delays or movement disorders, but also extend to young athletes who may have suffered sports-related injuries.

 

How Paediatric Physiotherapists Can Help

The role of a paediatric physiotherapist is to work closely with children and their families to identify any physical challenges that may be affecting their quality of life. These challenges can include developmental delays, muscular and skeletal disorders, neurological conditions, injuries, concussions and sports-related injuries. Once identified, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan designed to help the child improve their physical function and mobility.

 

Physiotherapy for Sports Injuries

Sports injuries are common among young athletes and can range from minor sprains to more severe injuries such as ligament tears or fractures. A paediatric physiotherapist with expertise in sports injuries can help athletes recover from their injuries and return to their sport as quickly and safely as possible. Some of the key areas that a paediatric physiotherapist can help with include:

  1. Injury assessment: The physiotherapist will evaluate the extent of the athlete’s injury, determine the underlying cause, and develop an individualized treatment plan.
  2. Pain management: Pain can be a major barrier to recovery. The physiotherapist will work with the athlete to manage pain through various techniques such as manual therapy, stretching, and exercise.
  3. Rehabilitation exercises: The physiotherapist will develop a rehabilitation plan that includes exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. These exercises will be tailored to the athlete’s specific injury and level of fitness.
  4. Return to sport planning: Returning to sport too soon can increase the risk of re-injury. The physiotherapist will develop a plan for safely returning the athlete to their sport, which may include a gradual increase in activity and sport-specific training.

 

At PlayWorks Physio, we have a team of experienced and highly trained paediatric physiotherapists who are experts in youth sports injuries and pain. Our goal is to provide young athletes with the highest quality care and support to help them recover from their injuries and get back to doing what they love. We also offer injury prevention programs designed to help young athletes reduce their risk of injury and stay healthy.

If your child has suffered a sports-related injury or is experiencing pain, we encourage you to schedule an assessment. Our team of physiotherapists will work with you and your child to develop a personalized treatment plan that will help them recover and return to their sport as safely and quickly as possible.

 

Written by: Maegan Mak, Physiotherapist

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The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Your Child to Ride a Bike

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Learning how to ride a bike is an exciting milestone to reach but getting started can be scary. Here is how to get your child to become a confident and safe bike rider.

 

Balance Bike 

A balance bike is a perfect place to start for your young one if they are not ready for the pedals. If you already have a pedal bike, remove the pedals from the crank arms of the bike to use it as a balance bike! This is a great option if your child needs to get comfortable being independent on a two-wheeler. Your child will learn how to balance on a two-wheel bike, which is a prerequisite to a pedal bike.

 

Getting started: 

  1. Your child’s feet should be flat on the ground when they sit on the bike saddle. Ensure that the seat height is low enough for them to ride safely and independently.
  2. Pick a lighter weight bike. Heavier bikes will be more challenging to maintain balance.
  3. Start your child sitting on the bike, helmet on, hands on handlebars, and feet flat on the ground.
  4. Start walking to roll the bike! Motivate them to do this as independentely as possible. Comfort levels around the bike will vary, so patience and positive affirmations are key!
  5. As they build confidence, motivate them to pick up the pace, and try to lift their feet off the ground for a moment to let the bike roll! This is where the balance practice comes in. Rolling down driveways or grassy hills is a great way for them to easily pick up speed and learn the feel of gliding and balancing.
  6. If they don’t have handle-bar breaks, they will have to use their feet to stop. A game of red-light/green light is perfect for practicing stopping control.
  7. Master the balance bike with turning. Start with small S turns while walking, and then try it with some speed. Build momentum, lift the feet, and attempt small, controlled turns.
  8. Be patient – every kiddo learns at their own pace. With a little, or a lot of practice, your child will be pedal-ready. Your child can upgrade to pedals when they can confidently balance while rolling long distances on the bike.

 

Pedal Bike 

If your child feels confident balancing while rolling and can control the balance bike while turning and stopping, it is time to graduate to try a pedal bike! If you decide to skip the balance bike and hop right onto a pedal bike, it is still beneficial to build balance skills on the bike by lowering the seat so they can practice balancing while the bike is rolling.

 

10 Steps for Success:

  1. Safety first! Be sure to strap on a helmet. The helmet should fit snug and not wobble when your child shakes their head. Wear closed-toe shoes. Flip flops are not a safe biking option, even in the summer.
  2. For set up, the seat height should be low enough that your child can have their feet flat on the ground, but their knees should be straight. As your child progresses, you can raise the seat height, so they have a slight knee bend when their foot is placed on the pedal when the pedal is at its lowest position.
  3. Practice getting on and off the bike. Tip: Use the hand break to prevent the bike from rolling while mounting or dismounting.
  4. Practice breaking. If your child prefers the pedal break, get them to practice the back pedal motion while stationary. You can progress this by supporting the bike and slowly rolling while they practice breaking. Red-light/Green-light game is a fun activity for this.
  5. Try turning while stationary. Make sure your child is comfortable with keeping the handlebars straight and controlled turning before doing it on a moving bike.
  6. It is time to start pedalling. One foot should be on the ground and the other should be placed on a pedal. This pedal should be positioned at about 10 o’clock. The child will push off with their foot from the ground and press down on the pedal to start rolling the bike. Give support by holding at their shoulders or on the bike seat and help push them forward to get some momentum.
  7. Bikes balance with momentum, so motivate them to get a little speed or ride down a slope. The faster they pedal, the easier it is to maintain their balance.
  8. “Look where you are going” is a great cue to remind your kid to keep their head up to prevent crashes and looking down at their pedals makes balancing very difficult.
  9. If your kiddo is swerving around, a good reminder is to “keep your elbows straight!” This will prevent turning. Reminding them to look where they are going is also helpful.
  10. Add in controlled turning by going through a line of cones. Start by giving lots of space between each cone and get your child to master the skill by moving the cones closer together.

 

Learning to ride is a huge accomplishment, but it can be frustrating, so celebrate all the wins along the way. Everybody learns new skills at their own pace, so be patient and have fun. Our clinic is excited to be introducing a learn to bike program in the spring to help kids at various skill levels become safe and confident riders!

If you would like to book an assessment with a physiotherapist to work on balance, strength and coordination to help with biking, click here!

 

Written by: Kristin McElroy, BSc. Kin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What is Pool Therapy?

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Pool Therapy

Pool Therapy (also known as hydrotherapy or aquatic therapy) is physical rehabilitation that is performed in the water. It utilizes the concepts of buoyancy, turbulence, and increased resistance to movement that cannot be re-created on land. It is a popular treatment for a variety of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. 

What are the benefits?

  • Facilitates muscle relaxation
  • Reduces joint stiffness and improves joint range of motion
  • Reduces swelling
  • Allows for progressive weight bearing on painful joints
  • Improves muscle strength and stability
  • Improves balance, motor planning, and coordination
  • Improves cardiovascular endurance
  • Facilitates recovery after injury or surgery
  • Promotes community participation, independence & social development

Why do kids come for pool therapy?

  • To improve their confidence in the water
  • As an alternative way to strengthen muscles
  • To practice weight bearing positions in the water (the lack of gravity reduces pressure on the joints)
  • Achieving a variety of physical goals while engaging in FUN games and activities!

What does a pool session look like?

Treatment takes place at a community pool with a physiotherapist. Sessions are packed with fun games and activities that are designed to improve muscle strength, balance, coordination, cardiovascular endurance, and more!

Are you interested in pool therapy? At PlayWorks Physio, we provide individualized, 1-on-1 pool therapy with a physiotherapist to meet your child’s needs and help them work towards their goals. 

For more information or if you would like to book an initial assessment, click here or send us an email at hello@playworksphysio.com. An initial assessment in-clinic is required prior to sessions in the pool.

 

Written by: Melanie Touhey, Interim Physiotherapist

 

 

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Concussions in Kids

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What is a Concussion and What to do Next

A concussion is a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury that occurs with an impact or forceful movement to the head/body, causing a rapid motion of the brain in the skull. It can happen to children of any age as well as adults. Note: it’s not just blows to the head that can cause a concussion. Impact to the body can also transmit force to the neck and head, resulting in a concussion.

If your child has had an injury and you suspect a concussion, take them to the emergency room immediately if any of the following symptoms occur: What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion in children/teens?

Each person is different and may experience one, some or many of the below symptoms. These may vary from day to day or could be consistent. 
  •     Very Drowsy
  •      Vomiting
  •      Memory Deficits
  •      Seizure
  •      Blood from Eyes/Ears
  •      Bruising/ Black Eyes
  •      Severe Balance Issues
  •      Severe Injury
  •      Slurred Speech
  • Numbness in Arms or legs
 Emotional and Behavioural:

  • Irritability
  • Nervous/anxious/angry
  • Frustrated
  • Sadness

Physical symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Sensitivity to noise/light
  • Blurry vision
  • Decreased balance
 Mental symptoms:

  • Fogginess/tired
  • Feeling slowed down
  • Trouble remembering
  • Trouble concentrating

Sleep:

  • Trouble falling asleep
  • Trouble staying asleep
  • Sleeping too much
*Only 10% of concussions cause a loss in consciousness so this is not a reliable sign*

**Signs and symptoms of a concussion can be delayed by several hours or even several days! When it comes to kids and sports – if you’re not sure if a concussion has occurred – it’s best to rest for 48 hours after a blow to the body/head before returning to play. “When in doubt, sit them out.”

 

What are signs and symptoms of a concussion in toddlers and infants?

Infants and toddlers with a suspected concussion, or those experiencing behaviours that are abnormal/concerning for them, should seek immediate medical attention.  An infant or toddler with a concussion can present with some or all of these symptoms:

  • Crankiness/irritability that is not typical
  • Cannot be comforted or crying excessively
  • Changes in eating, sleeping or playing patterns
  • Worsened balance/walking
  • Decreased interest in toys/play
  • Increased fatigue/tiring easily
  • Decrease in skills (language, social, emotional or physical) 

What to do if your child has a concussion

Immediately:

  • Make them stop what they are doing
  • Stay with them to monitor them
  • Seek medical attention to be assessed

During the first 48 hours:

  • Allow your child to rest for a maximum of 2 days. They will need physical and cognitive rest to help their brain heal. 
  • Limit screen time and avoid activities that increase/cause symptoms. 
  • Schedule an appointment with a paediatric, concussion-trained physiotherapist to get started on a recovery plan.

After 48 hours: 

  • Limit physical exertion to activities that do not increase your child’s heart rate too high/cause them to break a sweat. 
    • Examples of things to avoid: Work outs, sports, running, biking, rough play, etc.
  • Cognitive activity should be slowly and gradually re-introduced as symptoms allow, including activities that require concentration and learning as well as exposure to loud noises. 

How long do symptoms last?

  • Most concussion symptoms resolve in 1-4 weeks. During this time we recommend that kids gradually return to school and sports with a return to play protocol, under the guidance of a trained professional.
  • Returning to full activity/sports too soon may result in more severe symptoms or long term problems. It can also put your child at risk of sustaining another concussion with more severe symptoms and a longer recovery period.

How do you treat a concussion?

Physiotherapy can help to assess and address concussion symptoms. Treatment can involve:

  • Neck dysfunction/whiplash 
  • Vestibular system – dizziness and nausea symptoms
  • Visual symptoms
  • Graded and monitored return to school and work with communication to teachers, coaches and more
  • Education on symptom management and how to successfully return to school and sports.
  • Comparing where your child is at to their Concussion Baseline Test, if they have one, and ensuring they get back fully to their baseline levels.

What’s different about Playworks Physio Concussion Treatment?

At PlayWorks Physio, our therapists have up to date concussion training and we individualize each patient’s treatment to their specific concerns and symptoms. We take the time to find out what your child’s interests are and use games and play to motivate them with their exercises! From high level athletes to toddlers, each child’s plan is catered to their level. 

Have a child with a suspected concussion? Click here to book an appointment or call us to see how we can help to identify if a concussion is present and provide treatment as necessary – 604-492-3888.

 

Written by: Kate Heays & Lindsay Eriksson

 

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