Helping your child every step of the way
Children are very special - that's why at Physio4Children we gear our whole philosophy and approach especially to suit them, so they can get the maximum benefits from our service.
When seeking physiotherapy input for your infant, child or adolescent it is important that you approach a Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapist, who is experienced in the field of ‘Paediatrics’.
Children are not little adults and adolescents are not large children. From birth to 18 years of age the body undergoes periods of rapid growth and develops through a series of specific postures. At Physio4Children we have specific knowledge of this skeletal development, other pathologies and conditions that effect children.
The physiological make up of the body is constantly changing and the psychological needs of a baby transforms into that of an adolescent. We understand that the emotional needs of the young are different to that of adults and that the approach to treating a child is very different to that of a baby. In many cases reluctance to move an injured part in the young, is related purely to fear. At physio4children we understand that our approach to treatment, can significantly affect the outcome. Children respond well to treatments that incorporate play, goal setting and rewards. They require continued motivation and encouragement to succeed.
Some modalities used in the treatment of adults, such as electrotherapy and weight resisted exercise, are contraindicated in children. We ensure that we practise evidence based medicine, audit data and participate in continued professional development. Our therapists are members of the ‘Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists’ and attend courses related to clinical practice as appropriate.
Some children receiving physiotherapy may have complex needs and require treatment from multidisciplines. With consent, Physio4Children will liaise with your NHS physiotherapist and other health professionals within the NHS or education systems, to ensure the best outcome for your child.
Physiotherapy programmes will be tailored towards a child’s specific needs. We can provide ‘one off’ sessions to re assess and reassure, or a block of weekly input to address more complex needs. We will ensure provision of exercise and advice sheets to the children and their schools or nurseries as required.
Physio4Children has the expertise and knowledge gained from working in the field of paediatrics for more than eleven years. It is one of a limited number of independent physiotherapy services that specialises purely in the treatment of children.
Paula Stephen
Our lead Physiotherapist, Paula Stephen, graduated from Nottingham University in 1993 with a Bsc(hons) degree in Physiotherapy.
After 2 years of post graduate training at the Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, Paula chose Paediatrics as a specialist area. At this large teaching hospital and regional centre for children’s cancer and brain injury, Paula worked alongside experienced medical and nursing teams. She spent a further 9 years treating neonates, children and adolescents, and gained a wealth of experience in the following areas: general paediatric medicine and surgery, orthopaedic trauma and sports injuries, children’s neurology and rheumatology.
Paula has a specialist interest in biomechanics, skeletal growth and sports injuries and has worked closely with Paediatric Consultants in these areas. She continues to maintain her post graduate training, attending courses as appropriate.
Paula is a Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapist. She is a member of the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists and a founding member of Independent Children’s Physiotherapists.
If you have any other questions or need more information please contact us.