Physio for children and teenagers
Childhood and Adolescence is a huge time of physical and mental growth. So it is understandable that growing, by itself or combined with the physical demands of and active life,sport and study, can result in aches and pains.
It is important that physical growth is managed well, especially if there are injuries. There are many things that you can do, which do not necessarily require your child stopping sport and activities. Complete rest and stretching are not always helpful but managing physical load and strengthening can be.
We really enjoy helping you and your children navigate challenging times - let us help you both work out what you can and shouldn't do to manage childhood and adolescent injuries, for the best long term outcomes.
Improved posture and alignment
Teens often spend long hours in front of their computer screens or hunched over their phones. This can contribute to poor posture and pain
Poor posture not only causes aches, pains, discomfort, and restriction to movement but can also put stress on their musculoskeletal system. Pain and stress can hinder the brains’ ability to concentrate, think and problem-solve .
Physio for posture and alignment involves providing exercises and techniques to strengthen the muscles that support good posture. For more info on managing pain in children and adolescents refer to our resources tab.
Increased strength and flexibility
Regular physiotherapy can help teenagers increase their strength and flexibility, support their full range of motion and improve balance and coordination. Prevention of sporting injuries and improving the capacity for sporting performance may also be a benefit.
Injury prevention
While physiotherapy is great for rehabilitating after an injury physiotherapy may also help to avoid some injuries in the first place.
By working with a physiotherapist, teenagers can learn to prevent some common injuries that occur during sports, dancing and physical activity. It also includes education on how to properly warm up and cool down as well as help to strengthen and stabilise muscles and joints.
Rehabilitation after injury
If your child or teenager does suffer an injury, physiotherapy can help them to rehabilitate and may speed up recovery.
Whether it’s a sprained ankle, a ruptured tendon or a dislocated joint, physiotherapy can provide support.
Children and teenagers are busy. There’s school, sports, socialising, and maybe a part-time job. They have a lot on their plates.
Is often necessary to remind them to prioritise their health amongst all of that.
Injuries to muscles, tendons, bones, ligaments, and joints can develop into more serious complications in later life if left untreated.
Physiotherapy can help support improved overall health into the future by treating existing issues and promoting good habits, paying particular attention to supporting a physically active lifestyle.
According to the Australian Physiotherapy Association, physically active kids do better in school, thanks to improved memory and thinking skills. Plus, they’re more social and less prone to depression and anxiety.
Investing in your teenager’s physical health now can help set them up for greater overall health in the future.