.jpg)
Treatment for Children's Movement & Development
Pediatric physiotherapists assess and treat children with movement difficulties, developmental delays, injuries, and physical conditions from infancy through age 18. Treatment combines manual therapy, strengthening exercises, and movement training adapted to each child's developmental stage.
Pediatric physical therapy specializes in child development and growing bodies. Children's physical therapists evaluate strength, coordination, balance, and mobility to create age-appropriate treatment protocols. Children respond differently than adults to physical therapy. Their bones, muscles, and nervous systems continue developing, requiring modified techniques. A pediatric physiotherapist uses play-based activities that engage young patients while addressing clinical goals—disguising therapeutic exercises as games.
When Should a Child See a Physiotherapist?
Understanding the difference between normal developmental variations and concerns requiring assessment helps parents make informed decisions about seeking pediatric physiotherapy.
Normal variations include: Walking anywhere from 10-18 months, brief toe walking during early walking phase (under age 2), occasional falls while learning new skills, and brief clumsiness during growth spurts.
Signs requiring assessment include: Walking delay beyond 18 months, persistent toe walking after age 2, frequent falls that don't improve with practice, significant movement asymmetry (favoring one side), pain limiting activities, and regression in previously achieved skills.
Infant Warning Signs (0-12 Months)
Baby physiotherapy addresses concerns when children haven't rolled over by 6 months, don't sit unsupported by 9 months, can't pull to stand by 12 months, show excessive stiffness or floppiness, consistently tilt head to one side (torticollis), have flat spots on skull (plagiocephaly), or favor one side during activities.
Toddler Through Teen Concerns
Ages 1-5 years: Walking delays beyond 18 months, toe walking persisting past age 2, W-sitting position, difficulty using playground equipment, can't jump with both feet by age 4. Ages 6-18 years: Poor posture during seated activities, pain during or after physical activities, difficulty keeping up with peers in sports, persistent "growing pains" limiting activity, avoiding physical education or playground activities, and sports injuries requiring rehabilitation.
Conditions We Treat
Our pediatric physiotherapists at Revibe treat a wide range of childhood conditions through evidence-based, play-based techniques tailored to each developmental stage.
Neurological Conditions
Cerebral Palsy: This neurological condition affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. Pediatric physiotherapy focuses on improving movement patterns, preventing contractures, and maximizing functional independence. Down Syndrome: Down syndrome involves low muscle tone (hypotonia) and joint laxity, creating challenges achieving motor milestones. Physiotherapy begins in infancy, addressing head control, rolling, and sitting. Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): DCD affects motor planning and execution. Kids with DCD appear clumsy, struggle learning new motor skills, and avoid physical activities.
We also treat:Spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, developmental delays
Torticollis in Babies
Infant torticollis causes tight neck muscles on one side, creating head tilt and rotation preference. Infant physiotherapy includes gentle neck stretching, positioning strategies during sleep and feeding, activities encouraging head turning, and parent education. Early intervention typically resolves this condition within weeks to months.
Treatment includes:Gentle stretching, tummy time strategies, positioning education, home exercise programs for parents
Sports Injuries
Youth athletes require age-appropriate protocols accounting for growth plates and developing tissues. Common pediatric sports injuries include ankle sprains, knee injuries (ACL tears, patellofemoral pain), shoulder injuries, stress fractures, and overuse injuries from sport specialization. Treatment prepares athletes for safe return to sport while preventing re-injury.
Common injuries:Ankle sprains, knee injuries, shoulder problems, stress fractures, overuse injuries
Developmental Delays
Children who achieve motor milestones later than expected benefit from targeted physiotherapy. Treatment focuses on building foundational skills necessary for age-appropriate activities. Early intervention produces the best outcomes for developmental delays.
Milestone delays:Late walking, delayed crawling, poor coordination, balance difficulties, weakness
Gait Abnormalities
Toe walking, in-toeing (pigeon toes), out-toeing, and other walking pattern concerns require assessment to determine if intervention is needed. Some gait patterns resolve naturally with growth while others benefit from physiotherapy intervention including strengthening, stretching, and gait training.
Walking patterns:Persistent toe walking, in-toeing, out-toeing, limping, uneven gait
Post-Surgical and Fracture Recovery
Children recovering from surgery or fractures require age-appropriate rehabilitation. Treatment restores strength, range of motion, and function while accounting for growth and development. Pediatric physiotherapists coordinate with orthopedic surgeons for optimal recovery outcomes.
Recovery support:Post-operative rehabilitation, fracture recovery, scar tissue management, return to activity programs
.jpg)
How Pediatric Physical Therapy Works
Our pediatric physiotherapists use specialized, age-appropriate techniques that make therapy engaging and effective for children of all ages.
Pediatric physiotherapists measure range of motion, muscle strength, coordination patterns, and functional abilities using standardized developmental assessments (like the Gross Motor Function Measure or Pediatric Balance Scale) to identify where a child falls relative to age-expected milestones. Parents answer questions about birth history, medical background, developmental milestones, current concerns, and family goals.
Sessions include warm-up activities (5-10 minutes), targeted exercises addressing specific goals (15-20 minutes), functional practice incorporating skills into play (10-15 minutes), and cool-down with parent education (5 minutes). Treatment techniques include manual therapy (joint mobilization, soft tissue release, gentle stretching), movement training (task-specific practice, motor learning, gait training), strengthening exercises, balance training, and activity-based interventions like playground therapy and obstacle courses.
Treatment incorporates games rather than exercise-focused sessions. A pediatric physiotherapist disguises strengthening, balance, and coordination work as play to maintain engagement and motivation. Animal walks, obstacle courses, ball games, and movement activities make therapy fun while achieving clinical goals. This approach maintains children's attention and encourages active participation.
Parents learn exercises during sessions with written instructions, photos, or videos. Consistency with home exercises significantly impacts progress rates. Home programs are designed to fit into daily routines and family schedules. For infants, this might include tummy time and positioning strategies. For older children, exercises incorporate play and daily activities like climbing stairs or playground equipment.
Therapists track changes using re-measurement of initial assessment parameters, standardized developmental checklists, goal achievement tracking, parent questionnaires, and photos or videos documenting movement quality. Regular progress reviews ensure treatment remains effective and goals stay relevant to the child's changing needs and abilities.
What Makes Pediatric PT Different from Adult PT?
Specialized Training: Pediatric PT requires additional coursework in child development, pediatric conditions, family-centered care, and play-based strategies beyond standard physiotherapy education. Our children's physical therapists complete advanced training specific to treating growing bodies.
Growth & Development Expertise: Children's bodies change continuously, requiring treatment modifications. Pediatric physiotherapists understand how growth plates affect exercise selection, normal developmental sequences, and age-appropriate strength levels. Treatment adapts as children grow and mature.
Family-Centered Care: Parents participate actively in sessions, learning techniques to support their child's progress at home. We view families as partners in treatment. Parent education forms a critical component of every session, ensuring therapeutic benefits extend throughout the child's day.
Shorter Sessions: Duration varies by child's age and attention span (typically 20-45 minutes vs. 45-60 minutes for adults). Younger children require shorter, more frequent sessions while teenagers can participate in longer treatment sessions similar to adults.
Benefits of Pediatric Physiotherapy
Improved Mobility: Walking longer distances, navigating uneven terrain safely, returning to sports participation, and managing stairs independently. Children gain confidence in their physical abilities and participate more fully in age-appropriate activities.
Enhanced Social Participation: Confidence joining playground activities, participating in sports teams and physical education, and keeping up with peers. Physical abilities directly impact social opportunities and self-esteem during childhood.
Increased Independence: Independent dressing and personal care, carrying school supplies, and managing daily tasks without assistance. Functional improvements translate to greater autonomy at home and school.
Pain Reduction: Strengthening weak muscles, improving posture, and properly rehabilitating injuries reduces pain and discomfort. Children can return to activities they enjoy without limitations from pain.
Academic Performance: Core strength supports sitting tolerance during classroom work. Physical therapy addresses underlying factors that may affect a child's ability to participate fully in school activities.
Home Exercise Examples by Age
Between physiotherapy sessions, specific exercises maintain treatment gains and accelerate progress. Our practitioners demonstrate movements that address your child's particular restrictions and provide clear instructions for home practice.
Consistency with home exercises significantly impacts progress rates. We design home programs to integrate naturally into daily routines, making them easier for families to maintain long-term.
Infants & Toddlers
For Infants with Torticollis:
• Tummy time multiple times daily with toys on tight side
• Gentle neck stretching (demonstrated by therapist)
• Position crib toys encouraging head turning
For Toddlers Building Strength:
• Animal walks (bear, crab, frog, bunny)
• Climbing on/off couch or sturdy chair
• Push/pull games with laundry basketPreschool & School-Age
For Preschoolers Improving Balance:
• Stand on one foot while brushing teeth
• Walk along lines on sidewalk
• Catch and throw balls
For School-Age Children:
• Jump rope skills
• Obstacle courses using household items
• Sports skills practice
• Active play (dance, bikes, swimming)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Physiotherapy
Treatment spans birth through 18 years. Infant physical therapy addresses concerns in babies, while youth rehabilitation supports teenagers. Therapists modify approaches based on developmental stage, with treatment strategies varying significantly between infants, toddlers, school-age children, and adolescents.
Duration depends on child's age and attention span (typically 20-45 minutes). Infants receive shorter sessions while teenagers tolerate longer appointments. Initial assessments run longer for comprehensive evaluation. Session length is tailored to maintain engagement and maximize therapeutic benefit.
Requirements vary by insurance provider. Some require physician referrals for coverage while others allow direct access. Ontario allows direct access to physiotherapists without physician referral, but check your insurance policy details before booking. Contact us at (905) 783-8423 to clarify your specific requirements.
Treatment duration depends on diagnosis, severity, age at intervention, and response to treatment. Short-term conditions (torticollis, minor injuries) may need 6-12 sessions. Medium-term conditions may need 12-24 sessions. Long-term management continues for chronic conditions like cerebral palsy. Your physiotherapist discusses expected timelines during the assessment.
Bring insurance cards, physician referral if required, previous medical records, list of medications, written list of concerns, notes about developmental milestones, comfortable clothing for your child, snack and water, and a favorite toy for young children. Wear clothing that allows the therapist to observe and assess movement.
Results timeline varies by condition. Infant torticollis shows noticeable improvement within 2-8 weeks. Developmental delays show milestone progress over 3-6 months. Sports injuries typically see return to activity within 4-12 weeks. Post-surgical recovery achieves full function over 3-6 months. Chronic conditions show ongoing progress with continuous management.
Coverage varies by insurance plan and diagnosis. Many providers cover medically necessary pediatric PT with appropriate physician documentation. Extended health insurance plans typically include physiotherapy coverage. Benefits usually include a set number of visits annually. Revibe offers seamless insurance direct billing for extended healthcare plans. Contact us at (905) 783-8423 to verify your specific coverage.
Yes. Home programs extend treatment benefits between clinic visits. Pediatric physical therapists demonstrate exercises and provide written instructions with photos or videos. Consistency with home exercises impacts progress rates significantly. We design programs that fit naturally into your family's daily routine.
Common schedules include 1-2 times weekly for active intervention, weekly sessions with daily home exercises, or bi-weekly for maintenance. Your therapist recommends frequency based on your child's needs, family schedule, and insurance coverage. Treatment frequency may change as your child progresses.
Pediatric physiotherapy focuses on gross motor skills (walking, running, jumping), balance and coordination, strength and endurance, and sports participation. Occupational therapy focuses on fine motor skills (handwriting, cutting), daily tasks (dressing, feeding), hand and finger movements, and sensory processing. Many children benefit from both services working together.
Meet Our Physiotherapy Team
Scott French Physiotherapist
Michael Leung Physiotherapist
Zeeruk Rehman Physiotherapist
What Our Patients Are Saying
Best physio, tore my ACL and I feel amazing after 4 months. Zee is your guy!
I have been seeing Zee and he has been helping me with my knee rehab. Very professional and knowledgable Physio. I have been feeling better and better and honestly, it has changed my life. Clean facility with all the amenities you need and a very friendly staff.
highly recommend Revibe Mississauga for anyone needing physiotherapy, chiropractic, or massage therapy. I saw Zeeruk for physiotherapy to treat my injury, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Zeeruk truly takes the time to listen and understand his patients’ concerns, tailoring a solution that directly addresses each individual’s needs. His knowledge and dedication to his craft are clear as day, and he’s highly invested in helping his patients, like myself, recover. After over ten sessions, I see real progress and improvements daily. The clinic is excellent—it has a great location, modern facilities, and a wide range of amenities. Without a doubt, this is
Zeeruk Rehman has been a revelation in my rehab, I’ve regained my confidence in my athletic ability after my injury, and highly recommend him for anyone looking for physiotherapy. The facility and staff are top notch as well, and it’s great to be able to go to a resource like that when I need! The space has everything I need and the staff make it enjoyable to focus on getting better
Book Your Appointment in Mississauga, Markham or Burlington
Revibe operates clinics in Mississauga (serving Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, and surrounding areas) and Markham (serving Unionville, Thornhill, Buttonville, and surrounding areas). Both locations provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services for your health and wellness needs.
Mississauga Clinic
Location: 2290 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 1Z4
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
New patient visits include comprehensive assessment and first treatment session (75 minutes). Bring previous imaging reports, medical diagnoses, and lists of current symptoms. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to treatment areas.
Serving: Streetsville, Erin Mills, Meadowvale, Churchill Meadows, Lorne Park, Port Credit, Clarkson, and surrounding Mississauga neighborhoods. Convenient access from Highway 403, QEW, and Erin Mills Parkway.
Book Mississauga
Markham Clinic
Location: 220 Torbay Rd, Markham ON, L3R 1G6
Phone: 905-783-8423
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-3pm
Insurance coverage varies by provider. Extended health plans often include manual therapy and wellness services. Direct billing available for plans that Revibe accepts. Receipts provided for insurance submission or tax purposes.
Serving: Unionville, Thornhill, Markham Village, Buttonville, Milliken, Cornell, Angus Glen, and surrounding Markham and Richmond Hill areas. Easy access from Highway 7, Highway 404, and Major Mackenzie Drive.
Book Markham
Burlington Clinic
Coming Soon
We're excited to announce that our Burlington location will be opening soon. Stay tuned for updates on our new clinic serving the Burlington, Oakville, and surrounding areas.
