Paediatric occupational therapy

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.