Physio for Children in North Dublin
From birth, all children develop differently. Some have straight forward birth histories and are healthy and well. Some have a bit more of a bumpy beginning and have to work a little harder to catch up. Some are quick to get going, some take their time.
Children demonstrate strengths and weaknesses in different abilities and at different stages of their development. As parents, we worry and that’s a natural way to be! Sinéad at Physio4kids is both a parent and a Paediatric Physiotherapist.
With over 20 years experience working with children from birth to 18, Sinéad has the expertise to advise you. You may just require a one-off specialised assessment and some advice to help your child continue to progress. Or you may be looking for extra sessions for your child with more significant needs, to supplement what the HSE are providing.
Why choose a specialised children’s physiotherapist?
Children are not just small adults. They are continuously growing and developing. Their bones and muscles working together.
A Paediatric (Children’s) Physiotherapist has an expert knowledge of this development and possesses the skills and experience that are necessary for treating conditions that effect children.
What happens next?
If you have concerns about your child’s abilities or development, then please contact Sinéad. You can make a quick call or drop an email to explain your concerns and Sinéad will help you decide if an assessment is necessary. An assessment is always child centred.
Joint goal setting between parents, the child and your physiotherapist is the main priority. Visits usually take place at the clinic however, home visits can also be arranged.
I have more questions...
Of course! Please call Sinéad on 01 652 3364 or email info@physio4life.ie
The First Visit
On your first visit, Sinéad will sit down with you and listen to your concerns. She will take a detailed history and try to get an understanding of exactly what you and your child are hoping to achieve with physiotherapy. Sinéad will then assess your child.
Not uncommonly, children may not want to be assessed. However, do not worry, as useful information can be gained through observation and play! After the assessment, Sinéad will sit down with you and discuss her findings. In some cases, depending on the child, a second session may be required to get a full picture of the child’s difficulties. She will then do joint goal setting with you, as you both decided what you wish to achieve and the time frame you hope to achieve it in.
In some cases, a one-off session is all that is required, to give advice and re-assurance. Sometimes, you may both agree that there are activities you need to work on with your child and arrange for regular reviews as you progress with these. Reviews can be done as a block of treatment, with regular treatment over a number of weeks, or spread out over a longer period with more time between treatments.
Sinéad will make sure you are comfortable and confident with any home programmes she gives you to complete with your child, as you work together to reach their goals.
Occasionally parents may prefer for their child to be seen at home, in school or at nursery. This too can be arranged.
Fees
- €100 for a new assessment: this may take up to an hour.
- €70 for any follow-up appointments: this may take up to 45 mins.
Clinical Conditions Covered
Baby Play
Parents are not always sure how best to position their child, how to encourage tummy time and how to assist their child to progress from floor play, to kneeling and on to walking.
If you have concerns with your baby’s progression, Sinéad can advise you on the handling techniques that best optimise their movement patterns.
Developmental Concerns
Children develop at different rates. As parents you may become aware that your child is not as physically able as their peers. Often there is no underlying reason and children catch up in their own time.
Sometimes, however, muscle imbalance or poor core stability can make it harder for them to achieve their milestones. Sinéad will conduct a thorough assessment to rule out any underlying concerns and advise you how to help your child reach their goals.
Neurological Conditions
Sinéad has experience treating a wide range of neurological conditions, including among others:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Spina Bifida
- Muscular Dytrophy
- Arthrogryposis
- Acquired Brain Injury
- Brachial Plexus Injury
Coordination Disorders
- Dyspraxia
- Developmental Coordination Disorder
Other
- Down’s Syndrome
- Muscle, Bone and Joint disorders, e.g. Hypermobility, Torticollis, etc.
Useful Links
- Central Remedial Clinic
- Down Syndrome Ireland
- Enable Ireland
- Erbs Palsy Ireland
- Dyspraxia Association of Ireland
- The Disability Federation of Ireland
- Inclusion Ireland
- Informing Families
- Irish Wheelchair Association
- National Association of Acquired Brain Injury
- Spinal Injuries Ireland
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Scope UK
