Pediatric Physiotherapy Center

Pediatric Physiotherapy at Erdem Hospital: Comprehensive Care for Developmental Disorders

At Erdem Hospital, the Pediatric Physiotherapy Center focuses on providing individualized care through a specialized treatment program tailored for each child, taking into account their developmental needs, personal differences, and specific challenges. The collaboration between the Pediatric Neurology, Physical Therapy, and Rehabilitation departments ensures a holistic approach, while additional involvement from other specialized departments, such as Orthopedics, Traumatology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, is sought when necessary. This multidisciplinary method ensures that the best possible care is provided for each child’s unique situation.

Treatment Procedures and Approaches

A wide range of therapeutic methods are employed in the Pediatric Physiotherapy unit, with each approach being selected based on the child’s specific condition. These include:

1. Neuro-developmental Treatment Approaches

This treatment aims to improve neurological functions and motor development in children with developmental delays or neurological disorders. It involves exercises that enhance the brain’s ability to communicate with the body, particularly targeting the motor skills of children with conditions such as cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders.

2. Bobath Therapy

The Bobath concept is a well-established therapeutic approach primarily used for children with cerebral palsy and other motor impairments. It focuses on improving movement patterns and posture by using handling techniques that stimulate normal movement, which in turn, helps children with neurological disorders develop more functional motor skills.

3. Play Therapy

Play therapy is integrated into the treatment program, allowing children to engage in structured play to encourage movement, coordination, and sensory processing. Through play, therapists can work with children on developing motor skills, while also improving cognitive and emotional development.

4. Sensory Integration Therapy

This therapy is used to help children with sensory processing issues, such as those seen in children with autism or other developmental disorders. It aims to improve the brain’s ability to interpret and respond to sensory information, improving daily functioning.

5. Myofascial Relaxation

Myofascial relaxation therapy involves stretching and releasing tension in the muscles and fascia (connective tissue) to improve movement and alleviate pain. This method is beneficial for children with tight or stiff muscles, commonly seen in neuromuscular disorders and post-surgical rehabilitation.

6. Balance and Coordination Studies

Therapists work with children to enhance their balance and coordination through various exercises, such as balance beams, walking drills, and targeted motor activities. These exercises aim to improve a child’s ability to move with confidence and control, which is especially important for those with motor impairments or developmental delays.

7. Muscle and Nerve Stimulation with Compex Device

The use of the Compex device for electrical stimulation helps to stimulate muscles and nerves, improving muscle strength and function. It is used to support recovery from injuries, assist in muscle re-education, and reduce pain in children with neuromuscular conditions.

8. Orthotic and Assistive Device Usage

The use of proper orthoses (braces, splints, etc.) and assistive devices is vital in supporting children with physical limitations. These devices help maintain joint function, prevent deformities, and promote mobility.

Conditions Treated

Pediatric physiotherapy at Erdem Hospital addresses a wide range of disorders, including but not limited to:

• Cerebral Palsy: A group of disorders affecting movement and muscle tone due to brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth.
• Meningomyelocele: A type of spina bifida in which the spinal cord and its protective covering protrude through a gap in the spine.
• Congenital Torticollis: A condition where a child’s neck muscles are shortened or tight, causing the head to tilt to one side.
• Post-natal Brachial Plexus Injuries: Damage to the network of nerves controlling the arm, often due to difficult childbirth.
• Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily.
• Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions that impair the function of the muscles and nerves, often leading to weakness or loss of motor control.
• Spina Bifida: A birth defect where there is incomplete closure of the spine and the membranes surrounding the spinal cord.
• Traumatic Brain Injury: Brain injuries caused by physical trauma, leading to various cognitive and motor deficits.
• Spinal Cord Injury: Damage to the spinal cord that results in loss of function or sensation below the injury site.
• Musculoskeletal Deformities: Conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles, leading to deformities in posture, structure, and function.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How early can a child start physiotherapy at Erdem Hospital?

The appropriate age to begin physiotherapy depends on the child’s condition, but early intervention is encouraged. Physiotherapy can begin in infancy, especially for conditions like cerebral palsy, congenital torticollis, or post-natal injuries. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of a successful outcome.

2. Will my child need to continue physiotherapy for the rest of their life?

The duration of physiotherapy varies based on the child’s condition. For some children, therapy may be needed for a few months to help with motor development or recovery from an injury. Others may require ongoing physiotherapy to manage a chronic condition, such as cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders. Regular evaluations are conducted to determine the ongoing need for therapy.

3. Is the treatment program at Erdem Hospital tailored for each child?

Yes, each child receives an individualized treatment plan based on their diagnosis, developmental stage, and specific needs. Physiotherapists, in collaboration with other specialists, ensure that the treatment program is customized for the child’s optimal development.

4. What kind of improvements can we expect from pediatric physiotherapy?

The goal of pediatric physiotherapy is to enhance the child’s motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination, as well as to improve their ability to perform daily activities. Improvement depends on the severity of the condition and the age at which therapy begins, but many children show significant progress in mobility, independence, and quality of life.

5. Can children with cognitive or sensory issues benefit from physiotherapy?

Absolutely. Many children with cognitive delays, autism, or sensory integration disorders benefit from physiotherapy, which can help improve sensory processing, motor planning, and coordination. The multidisciplinary team at Erdem Hospital ensures that all aspects of a child’s development are addressed.

6. Is there a way to assess progress during physiotherapy?

Yes, therapists at Erdem Hospital continuously assess progress through various methods, including observational assessments, motor skill evaluations, and feedback from parents and caregivers. Progress is regularly reviewed to adapt the treatment plan as needed to achieve the best outcomes.

Conclusion

6. Is there a way to assess progress during physiotherapy?

Pediatric physiotherapy at Erdem Hospital provides specialized care for children with a variety of developmental, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders. Through a tailored and holistic approach, the clinic aims to improve the child’s overall functioning, mobility, and quality of life. The collaboration among different medical departments ensures that each child receives the best possible care and support to overcome their challenges.