Pediatric Neurological Conditions We Can Help With
At Hey CJ Health Group, we are passionate about supporting children with neurological conditions through personalized physiotherapy and occupational therapy services. Our team works closely with families to provide effective care that promotes mobility, independence, and overall well-being. Here are three common pediatric neurological conditions that we can assist with:
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by brain damage or abnormal brain development, typically occurring before or during birth. Children with CP may experience muscle stiffness, weakness, and difficulty with coordination, which can impact their ability to perform daily tasks.
How We Can Help:
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Physiotherapy: Our physiotherapists work with children to improve motor skills, strength, balance, and flexibility through targeted exercises.
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Occupational Therapy: OTs assist with developing strategies for everyday tasks, such as dressing, eating, and playing, and can recommend adaptive equipment to enhance independence.
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Speech and Communication Support: While not typically a primary focus for physiotherapists and OTs, we work in collaboration with speech therapists to support language and communication skills development.
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. It leads to developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and in some cases, physical challenges. Children with Down Syndrome may also experience muscle hypotonia (low muscle tone), which can affect motor development, coordination, and balance.
How We Can Help:
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Physiotherapy: Our physiotherapists support motor skill development, including strengthening exercises, balance training, and mobility activities to encourage walking and movement.
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Occupational Therapy: OTs provide strategies to improve fine motor skills, such as holding a pencil or using utensils, and assist with daily activities, fostering independence.
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Speech and Communication Support: While not typically a primary focus for physiotherapists and OTs, we work in collaboration with speech therapists to support language and communication skills development.
Spina Bifida
Spina Bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spinal column does not fully close during fetal development, leading to nerve damage and a range of physical and neurological challenges. Children with spina bifida may experience muscle weakness, paralysis, and difficulties with bowel and bladder control, depending on the severity of the condition.
How We Can Help:
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Physiotherapy: Our team works on strengthening the muscles around the spine, improving mobility, and preventing contractures (muscle shortening) through targeted exercises.
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Occupational Therapy: OTs help children with daily activities such as dressing, using the bathroom, and developing fine motor skills. We also provide advice on home modifications to improve accessibility.
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Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: If the child has undergone surgery for spina bifida, physiotherapy and occupational therapy can help improve outcomes by promoting healing, strength, and mobility.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
How We Can Help Children with Autism:
1. Occupational Therapy for Autism:
Our occupational therapists play a key role in helping children with autism develop the skills necessary for everyday activities. We provide support with:
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Sensory Processing: Many children with autism experience sensory sensitivities or seek sensory input. Our therapists work to identify sensory needs and help children manage sensitivities, such as sensitivities to sound, light, or touch.
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Social and Play Skills: OTs support children in developing appropriate social skills, including turn-taking, understanding social cues, and engaging in cooperative play. These skills are crucial for building relationships with peers.
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Daily Living Skills: Occupational therapy focuses on helping children with autism gain independence in tasks such as dressing, grooming, eating, and using the bathroom.
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Motor Skill Development: Children with autism may face challenges with fine motor skills (e.g., writing, using utensils) and gross motor skills (e.g., running, climbing). Our therapists work with children to strengthen these skills through engaging activities.
2. Physiotherapy for Autism:
Our physiotherapists support children with autism by addressing physical development and motor coordination. We provide:
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Movement and Coordination: Physiotherapy helps children improve their balance, coordination, and strength. Through play-based activities, children develop motor skills that are essential for activities such as running, jumping, or riding a bike.
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Posture and Body Awareness: Many children with autism may have difficulty understanding their body’s position in space. Physiotherapists work with children to improve posture, body awareness, and movement control, which can positively impact their physical coordination.
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Sensory Integration through Movement: For children who seek specific types of movement (e.g., swinging, rocking), physiotherapists can incorporate sensory integration techniques into their sessions to help children process sensory information more effectively.
3. Tailored Therapy Plans:
Every child with autism has different strengths and challenges. That’s why we work closely with parents and caregivers to develop individualized therapy plans that align with each child’s needs, preferences, and goals. Whether the child needs help with communication, behavior management, or physical movement, our team is here to create a holistic approach that supports the child’s growth and development.
4. Collaboration with Other Professionals:
We work in collaboration with speech therapists, psychologists, and other healthcare providers to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to therapy for children with autism. By combining expertise from various fields, we can address multiple areas of development and provide well-rounded support.
Why Choose Hey CJ Health Group for Pediatric Neurological Conditions?
​At Hey CJ Health Group, we understand that children with neurological conditions require tailored care that meets their specific needs. Our team of physiotherapists and occupational therapists is dedicated to working with children and their families to enhance development, improve independence, and provide support throughout their journey. Whether you are seeking help for cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or spina bifida, we are here to make a positive difference in your child's life.