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Children’s Physiotherapy

Children’s Physiotherapy (Ages five to 16)

The Children’s musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy Service assesses and treats school-aged children aged five to 16 with a range of musculoskeletal (muscle and joint) conditions.

We assess and treat:

  • Growth-related pain
  • Recovery after an injury
  • Rehabilitation following surgery
  • Pain associated with hypermobility
  • Toe-walking
  • In-toeing gait

Muscle and Joint Pain in Children

It is common for children to experience pain in their arms, legs or back while they are growing.

The information and resources below describe some common conditions and include advice and exercises. In many cases, symptoms improve by following this advice.

If symptoms do not improve, a referral to the physiotherapy service may be required.

Seeing Your GP or First Contact Practitioner (FCP)

There may be a wait for a physiotherapy appointment. You may wish to see your GP first.

Many GP practices offer appointments with a First Contact Practitioner (FCP). FCPs are specialist physiotherapists who can:

  • Assess your child’s condition
  • Provide a diagnosis
  • Advise whether further physiotherapy is needed

Important information

  • If your child has hip pain, please see your GP or FCP for assessment. Some growth-related hip conditions require imaging (such as an X-ray) and further treatment.
  • If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, seek advice from your GP first, as you may wait several weeks or months for a physiotherapy appointment.

Information and Advice

When to seek urgent medical advice

Seek urgent medical advice if your child:

  • Has severe or worsening pain
  • Is unable to weight-bear or walk
  • Has swelling, redness or fever
  • Has pain following a significant injury

Other Services

Children’s Paediatric Physiotherapy Service (East Cheshire NHS)

There is a Children’s Paediatric Physiotherapy Service in East Cheshire NHS, based at Pavilion House.

This service supports children with:

  • Developmental delay
  • Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions with complex needs
  • Children under the age of 5
  • Neurological/Neuromuscular conditions
  • Genetic conditions
  • Pre-term babies

Referrals to this service must be made by your GP, AHP, consultant doctor or health visitors.

A link to their webpage can be found here.

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