Paediatric physiotherapy is transforming the lives of children with various physical challenges, helping them reach their full potential through early intervention, skill acquisition, and motor learning. At Miller Health, a multidisciplinary clinic in Orillia, Ontario, Lauren Longeri, is a dedicated physiotherapy resident who focuses on treating children, from newborn to age 18.
Longeri began her career in Australia, where she worked with children with neurological conditions in a private practice for a year and a half before moving back to Canada in October 2022. She joined Miller Health with a mission to enhance paediatric services in the Orillia area.
Intervention is the key to unlocking a child's potential.
"The most important thing with kids is early intervention. The more proactive, the more they can maximize their potential and reach their goals," says Longeri.
Paediatric physiotherapy covers a wide range of interventions, often involving play-based activities that help promote learning and development in younger age groups. Longeri explains that the main goal is to "minimize impacts of any physical impairments children may have and ensure optimal function and development."
According to Longeri, a family-centered approach is crucial in paediatric physiotherapy, involving both the parents and the child in goal setting and treatment planning. "I like to work with the family, so it's really family-centered and inclusive goal-setting with myself, the parent, and the child," says Longeri.
Children may be referred to paediatric physiotherapy for various reasons, including injuries, neurological conditions, chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, sensory needs related to autism, developmental delays, torticollis, or concerns about crawling or walking.
Longeri notes that she also sees quite a few "toe walkers," an interesting phenomenon that requires targeted intervention. For any parents, guardians or care providers that have questions about whether physiotherapy is the right choice for their child, Miller Health offers free phone consultations.
The initial visit to a paediatric physiotherapist
When a family seeks paediatric physiotherapy services, they can expect an initial assessment lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the child's age and condition. A physiotherapist will review the child's birth history, developmental milestones, and the parent's concerns and goals. After a thorough assessment, an individualized treatment plan is created, which may include assistive technology depending on the child's needs.
Longeri advises parents to seek out a physiotherapist with experience working with children, as they are equipped to address the unique developmental needs of young patients. "[Children] are a little bit different in terms of their development, and it's important to have that specialized input to give them more of an individualized program to help with their growth," she says.
Paediatric physiotherapy is a vital service that can significantly impact a child's development, skill acquisition, and motor learning. Early intervention, family-centered care, and specialized input from experienced providers like Lauren Longeri at Miller Health can therefore help children overcome physical challenges and achieve their lifetime goals.
As Longeri emphasizes the importance of seeking specialized care, she states, "Getting that input from someone who does see a lot of children and has a lot of experience can make all the difference in helping them reach their full potential in an efficient manner ."
For a free phone consultation or to book an appointment, call 705-327-5400. Book online by visiting millerhealth.ca
