Pediatric is a branch of medicine that deals with the care of children and adolescents.
This term has roots in the Greek word pedo pais (a child) and iatros (healer). pediatrics cover the age group less than 18 years of age.
A physician who specializes in the health care of children and adolescents is a pediatrician. the goal of the specialty is to enable a child to survive, remain healthy, and attain the highest potential of growth, development, and intellectual achievement.
Pediatric biology is unique and risk factors of pediatric disease are distinct. clinical manifestations of childhood diseases may be different from adults. Indeed many disorders are unique to children.
Physiotherapy and PediatricsPediatric physiotherapists aim to minimize the effect of physical impairment to promote optimum functional and musculoskeletal development. working with children is exciting, challenging, and enriching.
The role of the pediatric physiotherapist is to assess the referred child and give parents and carers advice regarding handling, positioning, and treatment through play or exercise. physical therapists help to maintain and develop functional skill levels and range of movement to minimize joint contracture and postural deformities.
Some Common Pediatric Condition Treated Include:- sports injuries and general orthopedic condition
- cerebral palsy
- developmental delay/gross motor development delays
- Torticollis and plagiocephaly
- post-concussion syndromes, dizziness, and vertigo
- GBS (Guillain-Barre syndrome)
- cystic fibrosis
- developmental coordination disorder (DCD)
- hypotonia
- hip dysplasia etc.
Physiotherapist Provide Assessment, Treatment, and Consultation in the following areas-- Gross motor development
- Muscle tone and strength
- Posture/ postural control
- Pre-gait and gait training
- Neuromuscular function
- Endurance
- Body alignment
- Environmental adaptations
- Seating and positioning
- Wheelchair positioning and mobility
- Splinting /bracing/orthotics
Author: Sushanta Kumar Ghosh, Physiotherapy Specialist, DIU Medical Center.
