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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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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