Ready Steady Go: Weight bearing and mobility needs in paediatrics

Standing and walking are two of the most significant gross motor milestones in the first few years of life, opening up a world of opportunity for children in this period of development. Children with motor impairments will experience challenges in attaining these milestones, which may present as mild delay through to inability to achieve altogether. Adaptive equipment is often prescribed to assist in overcoming these motor impairments so that they do not act as a barrier to the child gaining the myriad of physical and functional benefits that being in these positions can bring. Whilst this may not be classified as ‘independent’, the provision of support for our clients to achieve goals in these positions is underpinned by the ‘Functioning’ focus of the F-words (ICF adaptation), highlighting that we should focus on what children can do, not how it is done.

This full-day, beginner to intermediate workshop will explore the basics of postural development in paediatrics, including when and how to recognise that independent weight-bearing and ambulation may be delayed or missed. We will uncover the range of benefits that can be realised through supporting children in these areas, with a specific focus on hip health and 24-hour activity. The level of support needed in these positions will be considered on a dynamic spectrum, determined by diagnosis and presentation, which we will then use as a framework for considering the equipment options available and how to clinically reason between them.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Overview of ‘typical’ paediatric postural control development.
• Understand what happens differently for a child with motor/movement impairment.
• Outline the benefits of weight-bearing and stepping for children with motor impairments.
• Understand the thresholds for considering different levels of support.
• Overview of support options available in different categories of standing frames/walkers & gait trainers.

Certificates and CPD points will be provided. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

SPECIAL GUEST PRESENTER:

The workshop will be presented by Jamie Cockle, a clinical educator from Medifab. Jamie completed his training in Physiotherapy at Cardiff University, UK and specialised immediately in Paediatrics. He gained a varied clinical experience during his years working as a Paediatric Physiotherapist within the NHS, finding particular interest in Neurological disability and rehabilitation. These experiences enabled him to work closely with a diverse range of clients understanding not only their needs but the families that support them. He is passionate about Paediatrics and ensuring all children, no matter their ability, have opportunities to be well supported as they grow and develop. Providing training and support in his role as a Clinical Educator, Jamie hopes to assist stakeholders in better understanding the principles behind 24-hour postural management for children, to optimise their health and happiness and to shape better lives.

Host or Publisher Astris PME