Muscle & Joint Pain In Children
Children and Adolescent Musculoskeletal Care at Chichester Physio
Growing pains are often seen as a rite of passage, but for parents and guardians, it can be difficult to know when an ache or discomfort is simply part of development and when it signals something more. At Chichester Physio, we understand that musculoskeletal (MSK) issues in children and adolescents can be unique, requiring a specialised approach to care. Whether it’s from an active lifestyle, sports injuries or natural growth, our team of experts are here to guide young people through their recovery, ensuring that they grow stronger and healthier as they navigate their way to adulthood.
Understanding the Growing Body
As children grow, their muscles, bones and soft tissues behave differently from those of adults. Their skeletal structure is still maturing, and this means their bodies react to injury in distinct ways. A young person might sustain injuries similar to those in adults, but the mechanism and treatment can be very different due to the changes in muscle and bone elasticity, as well as the incomplete development of the growth plates.
At Chichester Physio, we recognise these differences and tailor our treatments accordingly. Our physiotherapists are experts in understanding how children’s bodies evolve and how to provide the best care for each stage of growth. This ensures that any injury or discomfort doesn’t become a barrier to their active lives.
why Physiotherapy for Children and Young People is important
Injuries or chronic pain during childhood and adolescence can affect more than just a young person’s physical health. It can impact their emotional wellbeing, social development, and confidence. That’s why it’s so important to seek the right treatment as soon as possible.
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping children and adolescents regain their mobility and strength, while also improving their quality of life. With early intervention and expert care, we can help prevent future complications and ensure they remain active, confident and pain-free.
Our Approach to Paediatric MSK Care
At Chichester Physio, we provide a comprehensive, child-friendly approach to physiotherapy. Our team’s experience allows us to deliver treatment in a way that resonates with young patients. We make the process engaging and motivating, so children and teenagers feel comfortable and empowered throughout their recovery.
We understand that young patients have different needs, so our physios take the time to adapt their assessment and treatment plans. We’ll work closely with you – as parents – and communicate with schools, sports coaches, GPs or consultants when necessary to ensure all aspects of your child’s health are addressed.
Common Conditions we treat
We treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions that are common in children and adolescents, including:
1. Growth-Related Pain
Certain conditions are directly linked to the growth spurts that occur during childhood and adolescence. These can cause discomfort in joints and bones, especially in active children. We treat conditions such as:
- Osgood-Schlatter’s disease (pain at the knee joint)
- Sever’s disease (heel pain)
- Sinding-Larsen Johansson syndrome (pain below the knee cap)
2. Sports Injuries & Trauma
Children and teens who are involved in sports are at risk of injuries from overuse or trauma. Our physios are experienced in treating common sports injuries, from sprains and strains to more complex injuries like ligament tears and fractures. Whether it’s a football injury or a gymnastics mishap, we’ll get your child back to their best.
3. Posture-Related Pain
As children and young people grow, their posture can shift, sometimes causing pain in the neck, back or other areas of the body. We see and treat issues like scoliosis, back pain and neck stiffness, helping young people achieve better posture and improved function.
4. Lower Limb Biomechanics
Sometimes, children’s lower limbs don’t develop as expected, leading to conditions like flat feet, knock knees or gait abnormalities. These issues can lead to pain and discomfort if left untreated, but our expert physios can address these conditions early on to prevent future problems.
5. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
For young people who have undergone surgery – whether for a sports injury or another condition – post-operative rehabilitation is essential to ensure full recovery. We provide targeted physio to strengthen muscles, restore mobility and ensure a smooth recovery process.
get in touch with chichester physio today
If your child is experiencing pain, discomfort or has sustained an injury, don’t wait to seek treatment. Our physios at Chichester Physio are here to provide the expert care your child needs to recover fully and thrive. Whether it’s for growth-related aches or sports injuries, we will support them on their journey back to health in a relaxed, comfortable and a child-friendly environment.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to find out more about our paediatric physiotherapy services. Let’s help your child get back to being their active, pain-free self.
Reclaim Your Function, Regain Your Confidence
Don’t let pain, limitation, or uncertainty dictate what you can do. At Chichester Physio Ltd, we believe in your ability to improve, adapt, and excel—no matter your starting point. Together, we’ll transform your recovery into a journey toward greater function, freedom, and fulfillment in your daily life. Contact us today to begin the partnership that will help you move better, feel stronger, and live your most active life.