The paediatric occupational therapy team work with children between the ages of 0 - 16 years and focus on the assessment and treatment of:
- children having elective orthopaedic surgery, such as spinal, arm, hip or leg surgery, which may change their ability to move about freely and take part in their usual activities for a period of time
- children who live with rheumatic conditions, which are having an impact on their everyday life and independence; for example, school attendance, handwriting and participation in sport or social activities
- children who live with chronic pain, affecting their ability to regularly participate in age-appropriate activities.
Assessments and treatments are based on the needs of the child and their family. They can include the following.
- Preparing for surgery and the practical implications for everyday family life and routine.
- Assessing posture and seating.
- Prescribing wheelchairs/buggies.
- Advice and teaching on hoisting and manual handling.
- Advice on safe car seating after surgery.
- Home or school visits.
- Recommending and organising adaptations to accommodate the child's needs at home and school.
- Communication with and referrals to community services.
- Practising safe bed, chair, toilet, bath and car transfers following surgery.
- Practising washing and dressing independently.
- Making splints to support inflamed joints.
- Life skill training for example, assertiveness, managing pressure, healthy time management and healthy self-esteem.
- Advice on setting realistic goals.
- Advice on handwriting.
- Advice on pacing activities to manage fatigue.
- Advice on techniques to aid sleep.
- Relaxation therapy.
