What’s it like being a child? It’s difficult to remember looking back. We’re so busy! Going to work, the weekly shop, endless school runs, ballet classes, rugby matches – not to mention old age!
Being a child is one of the most exciting times of our lives. Brought into the big, scary world, with a lifetime of learning, exploring and adventuring to do. WoW when put like that it sounds truly amazing doesn’t it? It’s exactly why giving them the best start is so important and sometimes children need a helping hand.
Whether they’ve had a difficult start and arrived a little early. Can’t quite master that tricky skill of walking, a bit wobbly and find themselves on the floor a little too often Or picked up an injury in that football match or gymnastics class!
At Sarum we want to help your children have the very best of starts and physiotherapy may be just what your little one needs to help them on their adventure.
Physiotherapists are the experts in human movement and because we start moving from a very young age can be the bridge that is needed. The link that sets them on their adventure or ensures their continued development alongside their favourite sport.
The aim of a child’s physiotherapist is to help the child or young person reach their full potential. They do this by providing physical intervention, advice and support; working directly with the child and family.
Movement is essential to a child’s mental growth, general health and overall well-being, which is why we’re thrilled to have Alex Beck join the Sarum team. Alex is a Senior Children’s Physiotherapist for the NHS and works with children from babies to sixteen years of age and specialises in the musculoskeletal and orthopaedic field.
What to expect at your child’s first Physiotherapy appointment:
Your child’s first appointment will include a detailed examination to establish how Alex might be able to help. When you arrive you will be asked to complete a consent form and answer a few questions.
The first part of the appointment will involve asking you and your child some questions. Some of the things Alex may ask about include:
- Your child’s development
- Medical history and any medications they may be taking
- School life and hobbies
- Any pain, and how it is affecting them
- Any injuries or investigations they may have had
Next, a physical assessment of your child is completed. Being important to look at how they move so they may want to wear or bring shorts. Babies will need to be undressed to an appropriate level but don’t worry Alex will make sure they are kept nice and warm throughout.
Depending on the age of the child games and toys may be used to engage them and make the session more fun.
Once the assessment is complete the findings will be discussed with you. Then a plan is established based on the things that are most important to you and your child. Sometimes this involves things for you and/or your child to do at home. For older children and teenagers Alex will try and build treatments around their hobbies and make them sports specific if appropriate. As well as treatments she will also provide education and offer lots of advice.
Working with children is a privilege and Alex is passionate about helping children achieve their full potential; tailoring her assessment and treatment to the age and needs of each child and their family.
Alex and her patients are bringing even more laughter to the Centre and we couldn’t be happier.
