Does My Baby Need Physiotherapy?

As parents, watching your baby grow and develop is an exciting journey. From the moment they are born, babies begin to reach various developmental milestones such as lifting their head, rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking. Remember, every baby develops at their own pace. While most babies follow a typical growth pattern, there are times when a little extra support is needed to ensure they’re on the right track. That’s where Fortius Physiotherapy can help this process.

How do you know when it’s the right time for your baby to see a physiotherapist?  Let’s explore some key signs that may indicate your baby could benefit from physiotherapy, as well as the importance of early intervention.

Signs Your Baby May Need to See a Physiotherapist

1. Delayed Motor Milestones Each baby develops at their own speed, but there are general milestones to watch for. If your baby is significantly behind in reaching milestones such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or standing, it may be a sign that they need some extra help. For example, if your baby is not able to hold their head steady by 6 months or sit unsupported by 9 months, physiotherapy might be necessary to help them achieve these key developmental milestones.
2. Flat Head (Positional Plagiocephaly) Flat spots on your baby’s head, often caused by spending too much time lying on their back, are common in infants. This condition, known as positional plagiocephaly, can sometimes lead to asymmetrical head shapes. Fortius physiotherapists can guide you through exercises to improve head movement and correct posture, and they may also offer techniques to improve the baby’s overall motor skills.
3. Tight Muscles or Stiffness (Torticollis) Torticollis is a condition where a baby’s neck muscles are tight, causing their head to tilt to one side. This can be present at birth or develop during the early months. Babies with torticollis may have trouble turning their head in one direction, which can affect their ability to move or interact with their environment. At Fortius, we use gentle stretching exercises to help release muscle tension and improve the range of motion in the neck. 
4. Limited Range of Motion If you notice that your baby has trouble moving their arms or legs freely or seems stiff, it could be a sign of limited joint mobility. Babies should be able to move their limbs with ease, especially as they begin exploring different positions. If you suspect that your baby’s movements are restricted, the physiotherapists at Fortius can assess the situation and guide you through appropriate interventions.
5. Difficulty with Tummy Time Tummy time is crucial for building strength in your baby’s neck, shoulders, and upper body. If your baby resists tummy time or struggles to lift their head, it might be a sign that they need help with muscle development. A physiotherapist can provide strategies to encourage tummy time and help your baby develop the strength needed for future motor milestones like rolling over and crawling.
6. Abnormal Movement Patterns Some babies may show unusual or uncoordinated movements, or they may seem excessively limp and unable to support their body weight. This can be a sign of hypotonia, which refers to low muscle tone. In such cases, Fortius Physiotherapy can be highly beneficial for helping babies gain strength, coordination, and the necessary muscle tone for proper development.
7. Injury or Trauma If your baby has experienced a birth injury or trauma, such as shoulder dystocia or forceps delivery, physiotherapy may be needed to address any physical imbalances. Our skilled physiotherapists can help babies recover from injuries, improving their muscle strength, joint flexibility, and overall function.

Why Early Physiotherapy Matters for Babies

1. Preventing Long-Term Issues: Early physiotherapy intervention can help prevent delays in development and correct potential problems from affecting the child’s future motor development.
2. Enhancing Development: Physiotherapy isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s also about enhancing your baby’s development. Fortius physiotherapists can accelerate motor skills, improve coordination, and encourage milestones like sitting, crawling, and walking. Babies who receive therapy early on are more likely to reach their full developmental potential.
3. Boosting Confidence and Comfort: When babies struggle with movement or pain, it can be frustrating for them, leading to irritability and difficulty engaging with their surroundings. We can help ease discomfort, improve mobility, and make your baby feel more confident and comfortable in their body. This encourages social interaction and exploration.
4. Tailored Support for Parents: Our physiotherapists will teach parents techniques and exercises to do at home. These exercises not only support your baby’s development but also empower you to be actively involved in their care. We will offer guidance on proper positioning, tummy time strategies, and how to engage your baby in ways that foster their physical growth.

As a parent, it’s natural to want to do everything you can to support your baby’s growth and development. If you notice any signs that your baby might be struggling with movement, motor milestones, or posture, consulting our Fortius physiotherapists can make a significant difference. Early intervention is key, and physiotherapy offers a gentle, effective approach to helping babies overcome developmental challenges, improve their strength and coordination, and lead to a healthy, happy future.

If you’re unsure whether your baby needs physiotherapy, don’t hesitate to reach out to Fortius Physiotherapy’s qualified physiotherapists. They can assess your baby’s needs and guide you on the best course of action for promoting their development. After all, your baby’s well-being is the top priority, and getting them the right support at the right time can have a lasting positive impact on their life.