Irregularities in the psychomotor development of the child are first identified by a pediatrician based on an examination. The detection of any deficiencies and irregularities usually occurs between the 3^rd and 6^th month of a baby’s life because during that time, it becomes apparent what the child should be doing in terms of psychomotor development. The rehabilitation center is usually visited by parents whose babies suffer from predilection of the head to one side as well asymmetry of the entire body. This is most commonly the case in infants who often rotate the head to one side. This leads to the other side lagging in development and results in incorrect muscle cooperation. In case the child needs to perform an action that requires the action of both sides, he/she will be unable to carry out the activity. In such cases, CM offers the Bobath therapy as a means of treatment. The neurodevelopmental concept of Berta and Karel Bobath who first introduced it in the UK is based around the child’s daily activities and incorporates itself into the child’s daily life.

How does physiotherapy work with small children?

A physiotherapist at CM examines the child, determines what handicap the child has and where he/she is lagging in terms of development. The examination is based around observations of the child during normal movements and detection of any abnormalities. It is then essential that both parents are then shown the problems the child is facing and to recommend appropriate exercises which the mother will be taught. With these, she will be able to loosen certain body sections to ensure effective therapy.  In certain cases, an examination by a pediatric neurologist may be recommended.

Each therapy session at our clinic lasts 45 minutes. It involves a detailed conversation with the mother/parent to see for example what the child eats as well as how speech therapy issues are related to gross motor skills. Further, the therapist observes the child’s fine motor skills by for example handing over a toy for the child to play with. If the therapist detects a problem that needs to be addressed, an ergotherapist (occupational therapist) is involved and helps in treating the child.