Paediatric Physiotherapy: When Should Parents Be Concerned About Movement or Posture?

Sarah Plunkett
5 days ago
2 min read

Children grow, change, and develop at different rates — and variation is normal.

However, many parents tell us they have a quiet feeling that something isn’t quite right. At BodyRight Physiotherapy, we regularly support families who are unsure whether concerns about their child’s movement or posture are something to worry about — or something to watch.

Trusting that instinct can be important.

What’s Normal Variation in Children?

It’s normal for children to:

Develop skills at slightly different speeds
Move in their own unique way
Go through awkward phases during growth

Many changes settle naturally as children grow. Not every difference needs treatment — and reassurance alone is sometimes all that’s required.

Early Signs That May Benefit from Assessment

You may wish to consider paediatric physiotherapy assessment if you notice:

Ongoing pain or discomfort
Poor posture that doesn’t improve with time
Frequent tripping or clumsiness
Avoidance of physical activity
Delayed or regressing motor skills
Fatigue or difficulty keeping up with peers

These signs don’t necessarily mean something is “wrong”, but they can indicate that extra support would be helpful.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Children’s bodies are adaptable, responsive, and constantly developing.

Early physiotherapy support can:

Address movement issues before they become habits
Improve comfort and confidence
Support healthy posture and coordination
Reduce the risk of long-term problems

Early intervention doesn’t mean long treatment plans — it often means clear guidance at the right time. One of my joys in treating children is often how quickly they respond to a little physiotherapy and a few changes in their routine.

What Happens During a Paediatric Physiotherapy Assessment?

At BodyRight Physiotherapy, paediatric assessments are calm, age-appropriate, and supportive.

An assessment may include:

Observation of movement and posture
Strength, flexibility, and coordination testing
Discussion of daily activities, school, and sport
Screening for growth-related or biomechanical issues

We explain findings clearly to both child and parent, so everyone understands what’s happening and why.

How Physiotherapy Supports Children and Teens

Treatment is tailored to the child’s age, needs, and goals.

Physiotherapy may focus on:

Improving strength and movement control
Supporting posture and alignment
Reducing pain or discomfort
Building confidence in physical activity

Exercises are simple, practical, and designed to fit into daily life — not overwhelm families.

Do All Children Need Treatment?

No.

Sometimes reassurance, advice, or monitoring is all that’s needed. When treatment is recommended, it is always discussed openly with parents and tailored to the child’s needs.

Our goal is to support healthy development — not medicalise normal childhood variation.

Paediatric Care at BodyRight Physiotherapy

At BodyRight Physiotherapy Clinic in Drogheda, our Chartered Physiotherapists have experience working with babies, children, and adolescents across a wide range of movement and postural concerns.

We provide a friendly, supportive environment where both children and parents feel comfortable and informed.