Physiotherapy
What we do
Physiotherapists help children improve movement, strength, balance and mobility during recovery from illness, injury or surgery. We work closely with children, families and the health-care team to develop personalized goals and treatment plans that support participation in everyday activities.
All Physiotherapists at SickKids are registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario
What to expect
- Assessing your child's movement, strength, balance, mobility and physical function.
- Discussing your child's goals and participation in everyday activities.
- Developing a treatment plan with you and your child.
- Providing exercises, mobility training or other rehabilitation strategies.
- Recommending equipment or assistive devices when needed.
- Connecting your family with community services and resources.
Our team
Physiotherapy services at SickKids are provided by physiotherapists, physiotherapy practitioners and physiotherapy assistants who work together to support your child's care.
Physiotherapy Practitioners provide specialized care for children and youth with complex conditions. They work closely with families and the health-care team to assess needs, develop treatment plans and coordinate care.
Physiotherapy Assistants work under the supervision of physiotherapists and help children participate in therapy activities and treatment programs.
Neurodevelopment
Physiotherapists will assess your child's movement and development to identify strengths and areas where additional support may be helpful. They will help your child build the skills they need for activities such as sitting, crawling, walking and playing.
Mobility and strength
Physiotherapists will help your child improve their movement, strength, and endurance. Treatment may include exercises and acitivities that support participation in everyday activities.
Breathing and lung health
If you child's breathing or lunch functions have been affected by an acute or chronic illness, Physiotherapists can support your child by providing treatment that helps improve physical endurance and respiratory function.
Seating and assistive devices
Physiotherapists will assess your child's mobility and positioning needs. They may recommend wheelchairs, seating systems, walkers, crutches or other mobility equipment to help your child move safely and comfortably.
Transitioning home
Physiotherapists will work with you and your child's health-care team to help prepare for a safe transition home. They will connect your child with community programs and rehabilitation services that can support their ongoing recovery and development.
Outpatient Physiotherapy
Outpatient Physiotherapy at SickKids focuses on children and youth who have experienced a new or significant change in movement, physical function or mobility due to illness, injury or treatment.
Physiotherapy assessment and treatment
Your child may be referred to the Rehabilitation Department for a physiotherapy assessment by the family doctor, paediatrician or another health-care provider.
Following the assessment, the Physiotherapist will recommend the appropriate treatment and community resources based on your child's needs.
Physiotherapy consultations
Physiotherapists can provide consultations through specialized clinics.
During a consultation, the Physiotherapist will assess your child's needs, provide recommendations and connect services available in the community.
Student placements
Are you looking for student placements?
Learn about how you can join the Rehabilitation Department and become an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist with SickKids.