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Paediatric Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy at Head2Toe Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Clarity In Diagnosis. Confidence In Treatment

12-Week Prevention Program

Fast Pain Relief for Acute Injuries

Experts in Manual Therapy, Dry Needling and Exercise

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Paediatric musculoskeletal physiotherapy is tailored to the unique needs of growing children. Unlike adults, children’s bones, joints, and muscles are still developing, so injuries and conditions need careful, age-appropriate management.

Our physios work to restore normal movement, reduce pain, and promote healthy development so children can stay active in sport, school, and everyday life.

Common Signs and Symptoms

At Head2Toe physiotherapy and podiatry, our experienced paediatric physiotherapists are equipped to treat

Growth-related conditions such as Osgood-Schlatter’s disease, Sever’s disease, and apophysitis.
Sports injuries including sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.
Postural issues like scoliosis or knock knees/flat feet that affect movement and comfort.
Fracture rehabilitation after casting or surgery.
General aches and pains related to growth or activity.

Causes / Why It Happens

Children and teenagers are not just “small adults.” Their bodies are still growing, which makes them more vulnerable to certain injuries and conditions. Rapid growth spurts, increased involvement in sport, and developing movement patterns can all place extra stress on bones, muscles, and joints. Common causes include:

Growth-related changes – Tightness or pain from rapid bone growth outpacing muscle and tendon development.
Sports and physical activity – Overuse, poor technique, or sudden increases in training load can lead to sprains, strains, or growth plate injuries.
Postural and developmental factors – Conditions like scoliosis, knock knees, or flat feet may contribute to pain and movement difficulties.
Neurological and congenital conditions – Conditions such as cerebral palsy, torticollis, or neuromuscular disorders can affect movement and coordination.
Accidents and injuries – Falls, fractures, or trauma can impact how children move and recover.

By identifying the underlying cause, our physiotherapists create tailored treatment plans to not only manage symptoms but also support healthy growth and long-term development.

Experienced Team

Our physiotherapists are skilled in assessing and treating children and adolescents, from everyday aches and pains to more complex musculoskeletal conditions.

Family-Centred Approach

We work closely with parents and caregivers, ensuring you’re supported with practical advice and clear guidance every step of the way.

Collaborative Care

Our team works alongside podiatrists, GPs, and other health professionals to provide comprehensive support for your child’s health and development.

Evidence-Based Treatment

All management plans are guided by the latest research, with a focus on safe exercise, activity modification, and long-term outcomes.

Community Commitment

With clinics in Brunswick and Moonee Ponds, we’re proud to be a trusted local provider, supporting children and families across Melbourne.

Our goal is simple: to help your child move with confidence, recover fully, and thrive in sport, school, and everyday life.

How We Treat It

At Head2Toe Physiotherapy and Podiatry, we know every child is unique. Our paediatric physiotherapists provide personalised treatment plans that match your child’s age, condition, and goals. Depending on your child’s needs, treatment may include gentle hands-on therapy, tailored exercises, posture and movement training, and strategies to build strength and coordination. For conditions like developmental delays, cerebral palsy, neuromuscular conditions, or sports injuries, we also focus on functional activities that support confidence at school, sport, and home. We work closely with parents, caregivers, and other health professionals to ensure your child receives complete and holistic care.

What to Expect in Your Appointment

In your child’s first visit, we’ll start by getting to know them, their medical history, and the challenges they face in daily life. We then carry out a child-friendly assessment, which may involve looking at posture, flexibility, strength, and movement patterns. After the assessment, we’ll clearly explain what’s happening, answer any questions, and create an individualised plan. This might include exercises, play-based movement activities, manual therapy, or strategies for school and sport. Follow-up sessions are used to track progress, adjust the program, and provide ongoing education and support for both children and their families.

Highlight Patient Types

Our Paediatric Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy service supports a wide range of children and teens, including:

Active kids and young athletes – with sports injuries such as sprains, strains, or overuse conditions.
Children experiencing growth-related pain – including conditions like Sever’s disease or Osgood-Schlatter’s.
Children with developmental concerns – such as delays in gross motor skills, coordination, or strength.
Kids with neurological or neuromuscular conditions – including cerebral palsy or other movement disorders.
Children recovering from orthopaedic injuries or surgery – such as fractures, dislocations, or post-casting stiffness.
Infants and younger children with early movement difficulties – including torticollis or concerns with head/neck positioning.
Teens managing posture or back/neck pain – often linked to school, study, or technology use.

Whether your child is struggling with day-to-day movement, recovering from an injury, or aiming to perform at their best in sport, our team is here to help them move with confidence and thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does physiotherapy hurt?

No. Our treatments are designed to be gentle and safe. Some exercises may feel challenging, and children might feel mild muscle soreness as they get stronger, but sessions should not be painful.

How many sessions will my child need?

This depends on the condition and your child’s goals. Some children improve quickly, while others with ongoing conditions may benefit from a longer-term plan. We’ll discuss expected timeframes in your first appointment.

Can my child keep playing sport or participating in school activities?

In most cases, yes. We’ll guide you on whether your child needs to modify their activity and when it’s safe to return to full participation.

Do you work with my child’s GP, podiatrist, or other specialists?

Absolutely. We believe in team care and regularly communicate with doctors, podiatrists, and other health professionals to ensure your child’s treatment is coordinated and effective.

What role do parents play in treatment?

Parents and caregivers are central to our approach. We’ll give you clear guidance and simple strategies to support your child’s progress at home, school, and sport.