We sat down with Xavier Physiotherapist Fiona to understand how physiotherapy supports children with disability, what parents can expect from a physio session, how she works in collaboration with other therapists and more.
Here’s what Fiona had to say!
Q: Physiotherapy is commonly known to support people with physical rehabilitation, how does physiotherapy support children with disability?
Physiotherapy supports children to develop independent functional mobility to move around safely within their environments and to participate in leisure and recreational activities. For children who are unable to move independently physiotherapy promotes health and well-being of the child by considering postural supports throughout the day and night. This is called 24-hour postural management and involves supportive positioning so the child can be comfortable and participating in life to the full.
Q: What can parents and children expect from a physiotherapy session?
A physiotherapy session looks very different for each child but should involve fun activities that promote the development of strength, postural control, balance and coordination. A physiotherapy session take place in various settings such as the local swimming pool, a park or at childcare. There should be good communication with families to identify goals that lead to greater independence and participation both at home and in the community.
Q: What do you hope that a child or young person that you support will get out of a session?
I hope the child or young person will enjoy a session that gives them more confidence to do the things that are important to them.
Q: Do you work with other therapists or health professionals?
I constantly work with other therapists and health professionals to collaborate and problem solve ways to get the best results for each child or young person. Teamwork is so necessary as each therapist contributes a different piece of the puzzle.
Q: What led you to physiotherapy as a career path?
I originally thought of studying occupational therapy but ended up putting physiotherapy as first preference. It was a little random but now I have enjoyed worked so closely with occupational therapists for most of my career I have learnt a lot from them and relate to their approach.
Q: Did you always want to work with children with disability?
I always had an affinity with children and once I started working with children with disability there was no turning back. I love helping children to fulfil their potential working with families and supporting them through the journey.
Q: What might a typical workday look like for you?
There is no typical workday. I love the variety and look forward to each day. I love seeing children in a range of settings and always aim to observe and learn from them so that I can work out the best way to support them and their families. Sometimes I need to write reports and do follow-up behind the scenes as well.
Q: What do you love most about your job?
I love working with the families to build their knowledge and confidence to support their dreams for their children. I love learning and growing constantly as every child and family are different. I love seeing the children developing their potential and being able to participate more fully in life.
Q: What should anyone who is thinking about physiotherapy as a career path know?
Physiotherapy is a career with so many options and lots of flexibility. You can travel and work overseas as a physiotherapist and you can have the most rewarding career helping people to reach their goals. There is a supportive professional association and a range of career pathways.
Further info
Find out more about physiotherapy at Xavier.
