Physiotherapy

WHO WE ARE

The John McGivney Children's Centre Physiotherapy team consists of Physiotherapists (PTs) as well as Physiotherapy Assistants and Aides. We provide assessment, treatment and consultation to children and youth to improve or maintain their ability to move, function and participate in everyday activities. 

 

WHAT WE DO

Our PTs support children who have difficulties with movement, orthopaedic issues (bone, muscle, joint) and or infants who may be at risk (i.e. born prematurely or had difficulties or had difficulties at birth) of meeting their developmental milestones. 

PT services may include:

• Assessment, treatment and consultation
• Teaching of functional exercises (for example: attaining developmental milestones, walking, negotiating stairs, propelling a wheelchair)
• Prescription of therapeutic equipment (for example splints, walkers, standers) 
• Therapeutic groups aimed at improvement of function and participation combined with parent education and coaching 
• Home programming and consultation to caregivers, professionals and supportive personnel who interact with the child
• Promotion of participation in sports and recreation activities both at JMCC and in the community
• Promotion of movement, participation and independence in the home, at daycare and in community environments

Depending on need, therapy services are offered in the Centre, in the community or in the home. 
 

ELIGIBILITY & REFERRALS

Children and youth under the age of 19 and young people between the ages of 19 and 21 who remain in school and reside in Essex County are eligible for PT services. We assist children with the following conditions and more:

• Cerebral Palsy
• Acquired Brain Injury
• Neural Tube deficits including Spina Bifida
• Skeletal (bone) disorders: Achondroplasia, Osteogenesis imperfecta Arthrogryposis, congenital or traumatic amputation
• Neuromuscular disorders: Muscular dystrophies, spinal muscular atrophy
• Metabolic, mitochondrial disorders with neurological impairment 
• Cancer
• Medically fragile
• Rheumatological issues including rheumatoid arthritis 
• Torticollis (wry neck) or plagiocephaly (flat head)
• Feet and lower alignment issues: Flat-feet, in-toe gait, club foot, toe walking, leg or foot alignment issues
• Spinal cord injury

To access this service, please visit our Intake & Referrals page. Health professionals, families and clients can submit a referral.