09 Feb 🤔Did you know that children with Cerebral Palsy should have an annual spine X-ray? 🥴Perhaps you have decided not to carry out your child’s annual spine X-ray because you don’t see any value in doing them?

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) require annual spine X-rays to monitor for scoliosis and other spinal abnormalities that can occur with higher frequency in this population. Scoliosis, is a condition characterised by a sideways curvature of the spine, since CP affects muscle control and coordination, it can lead to imbalanced muscle forces on the spine, causing it to curve. Annual spine X-rays help healthcare providers monitor the progression of scoliosis.

Children grow rapidly, and their bones and muscles undergo significant changes as they develop. For children with cerebral palsy, this growth can exacerbate existing spinal deformities or contribute to the development of new ones. Regular X-rays allow for the assessment of how growth is affecting the spine and the identification of any emerging issues that may require intervention.

If a spinal curvature is detected or if there is significant progression in an existing curvature, interventions may be necessary to prevent further deformity and to manage any associated pain or functional impairments. Here at My Favourite Physio, our Expert Paediatric Physiotherapists 🤓believe in being proactive with the management of scoliosis and treatment options to manage scoliosis and to prevent worsening of spinal curvatures include:
1. Customised Dynamic Garment Orthosis to correct trunk postures
2. Radial Shockwave Therapy to reduce muscle tightness and imbalance along the spine
3. Core strengthening exercises with Functional Electrical Stimulation to increase core and lower back muscle activation.
4. Referral to Scoliosis Clinic at the Children’s Hospitals to ensure a child is monitored over time as they grow.

If you are concerned about your child’s spinal development, ring My Favourite Physio on 📱(02) 9790 4233 or DM us @myfavouritephysio to speak to one of our Expert Paediatric Physiotherapists today.

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