We offer early intervention paediatric physiotherapy services for infants aged 0-1. Paediatric physiotherapists understand how babies learn, move and play. We assess, identify and provide intervention for many different motor difficulties and developmental concerns. This includes:
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Developmental delay
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Head shape management
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Torticollis
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Tummy time tolerance
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Positional Talipes
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Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)
Developmental delay
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Delayed rolling, sitting and crawling
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Delayed pulling to stand, cruising and walking
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Only rolling or moving to one side
We help babies explore and learn new skills for movement through play-based intervention.
Head shape management
Babies are born with soft skulls to allow space for the brain to grow as the baby gets bigger. Sustained pressure on the back of the head can cause a flat spot on one side (called plagiocephaly), resulting in the front of the head being pushed forwards. Flattening can also occur on the back of the head (brachycephaly).
Head shape is best addressed with physiotherapy in the first 6 months while the soft spot on the skull is open. However, good improvement can still be seen up to 1 year.
Torticollis
Torticollis is a tight neck muscle which causes a baby's head to rotate and tilt a certain way.
There is often associated weakness of the opposite neck muscles. Some babies are born with a preference to look towards one side due to limited space in the uterus and others develop this after birth.
Physiotherapy treatment may involve stretches and activities for strengthening of the neck muscles.
Tummy time tolerance
Some babies dislike being on their tummies as they lack the strength required to keep their head and chest up. We provide positioning strategies, handling advice and activities to help babies develop their tolerance to tummy time.
If you are still unsure if physiotherapy is right for your baby, please don’t hesitate to contact us at info@wahealthgroup.com.au.
If you would like to book an appointment with our paediatric physiotherapist, click here.
Crystal Ong - Paediatric Physiotherapist
BSc (Physiotherapy) (Honours)
Crystal graduated from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree with First Class Honours in her project titled ‘Investigation of the gait of autistic children and typically developing preschool children’. As such, Crystal enjoys working with children and helping families get back to their daily activities. Crystal has a passion for treating spinal pain from athletes to seniors.
A consultation with Crystal involves a thorough assessment to establish a diagnosis and put together a scientifically proven treatment management plan to help your health problems. Crystal provides hands on manual therapy to reduce pain, together with active rehabilitation exercises to return you to meaningful activities. You will leave feeling equipped with the knowledge and tools you need to make changes that best fit your lifestyle. Whether you want to return to sport, work, or get back to walking the dog – Crystal has the knowledge and expertise to help you.
Crystal has appointment available for Paediatric Physio at WA Health Group Studio in Canning Vale and at WA Health Group Murdoch.