Specialist paediatric physiotherapists can help monitor your child’s musculoskeletal system as they grow, and ensure they are referred to a spinal consultant and/or orthopaedic doctor if any of the following problems occur:
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis or Spinal Curve – children are most at risk during growth spurts.
- Hip Displacement (subluxation/dislocation of the hip) – children who are wheelchair dependant are most at risk although walkers can also be affected.
- Lower limb contractures (loss of range of motion within either hip, knee or ankle). The most common areas affected are:
Hamstring shortening leading to difficulty extending the knee.
Planter flexion/equinus contracture (ankle and foot pointing downwards).
Children tend to walk on their toes as a result and standing balance is affected.
Hip flexion contracture (unable to extend or straighten the hip).
This is most common in children who are wheelchair dependent as the hip flexor muscle is often held in a shortened position.
Fixed pelvic obliquity/rotation (when the pelvis is unable to be placed into a neutral position when siting).
This is most common in wheelchair dependant children.
It is important to remember that children who are wheelchair dependent are at risk of hip displacement, fixed pelvic obliquity/rotation and scoliosis, and often these orthopaedic issues can occur together and one can drive the formation of the other. Good seating and postural support is essential alongside regular orthopaedic review with your orthopaedic doctor.
Are you looking for a specialist paediatric physio to assess your child’s musculoskeletal system? We can often see your child within 24 hours at home or school. Contact us today on 0207 884 0374 or email info@physiocomestoyou.com.