Pediatric Physiotherapy
Every child is unique, so it’s not unusual that children’s development can vary or that some don’t “bounce back” after an injury. For some parents, they can feel overwhelmed when they are given an early diagnosis for their child, like Low Tone, Cerebral Palsy or Muscular Dystrophy. Other parents simply “notice” that their child isn’t playing or walking like their peers. Perhaps “worry” began at birth and has left parents wondering if their child will be able to lead a healthy active life.
Parents are their children’s number one advocate and cheerleader; they want access to the best available resources and healthcare providers. With today’s busy schedules and information overload, some families may not know where to start. Some are left feeling like “a number” in the system whereas many others are waiting in the cue for the same initial guidance.
Pediatric Physiotherapy to support children and families with:
• Gross Motor Development
• Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Pediatric Pelvic Health
• Orthopaedic Concerns
Growing Pains, Knee pain (Osgoode Schlatter’s), Patellofemoral pain, Jumpers Knee, Heel/Foot pain (Sever’s Disease), Hip Pain (Legg Calve Perthes Disease, Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis)
• Neurological Conditions
Low Tone, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy and more.
• Delayed Gross Motor Milestones
Concerns with 0-3 years old milestones like delayed head control, rolling, sitting, crawling and walking
• Infant Concerns
Torticollis, Well Baby Check-Ins, difficulty with feeding, avoiding laying/playing/gazing in one direction, head shape changes (Plagiocephaly), milestone screening
• Sports Injuries
Concussions, Coordination/Body Awareness, Return to Sport Considerations and more.
• Movement Challenges
Toe Walking (toes in or out), “W” sitting, poor coordination and more.
Meet the EPA for Kids Physiotherapy Team
Guelph & Elora
Jessica Gingrich
Registered Physiotherapist, MSc (PT), BSc Hon Kin, EPA Pediatrics Lead
Jessica is a Registered Physiotherapist and our Pediatric Physiotherapy Lead. Jessica has experience working with children with a variety of sensory and motor challenges. Jessica practices within a neurodiverse model, ensuring that every child receives personalized and effective treatment. Jessica also delivers pediatric pelvic physiotherapy services for children faced with bowel and bladder dysfunction. Jessica is dedicated to creating and nurturing a fun environment where children where kids can thrive and reach their full potential.
Orangeville
Amanda Jones
Registered Physiotherapist, MSc (PT), MSc (Med Sci), BSc Hon (BIOM)
Amanda is a graduate of the University of Waterloo and McMaster University. Amanda has expanded her scope of practice to include the treatment of bladder and bowel dysfunction in children. As a Pediatric Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, Amanda can help treat child and youth pelvic conditions such as constipation, bedwetting, daytime wetting, fecal incontinence, giggle incontinence, and daytime storage or voiding issues (overactive or under-active bladder).
Cambridge
Carla Placido
Registered Physiotherapist, BSc (PT)
A graduate of the University of Toronto, Carla is practiced in Acupuncture (CAFCI) and Manual Therapy (Level 3). Her clinical interests lie in the areas of back rehabilitation, acupuncture, and low back core stability training. As someone who loves exercise, she has a strong background in manual therapy. Carla also has a keen iinterest in pediatric physiotherapy, addressing a range of conditions including torticollis, upper and lower extremity muscle strains & ligament sprains, Osgood Schlatter’s, shin splints, toe walking/in-toeing/out-toeing, brachial plexus lesion, Severs disease, growing pains, fracture recovery/post-op recovery, Perthes disease, and concussion. With her diverse skill set, Carla is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Cambridge
Maryia Waris
Registered Physiotherapist
Mariya graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Gulf Medical University, U. A. E. in 2006. She moved to Canada in 2016. Mariya completed the Canadian credentialing process and successfully Registered and Rostered for Pelvic Physiotherapy. Additionally, Mariya has a keen interest in pediatric conditions such as upper and lower extremity muscle strains and ligament sprains, shin splints, fracture recovery/post-op recovery, and growing pains. After performing an assessment, Mariya discusses treatment goals and puts forth a treatment plan that is customized to the patient’s individual needs. Mariya is fluent in speaking Arabic, Urdu, and Hindi languages. In her spare time, Mariya enjoys working out, reading fiction, and spending time with her family and friends.
Treatment and Support Approach at EPA for KIDS
EPA for KIDS offers a “Dynamic Core” or “Central Stability” approach. Our Physiotherapists emphasize early intervention to address developmental delays or movement challenges. Early detection and treatment can significantly impact a child’s progress, enhancing their ability to reach developmental milestones, such as crawling, walking, and other crucial motor skills.
EPA uniquely has an extensive, respected history in our communities, allowing us to connect you with many other key resources that may include: Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Therapists, Medical Doctors and more. At some sites, these resources may be conveniently available at our clinic sites.
EPA for KIDS is just the beginning of your family becoming part of our EPA family. Our services are available across all ages and journeys in life; ensuring ease of transition as your children grows and their needs change.
Our EPA clinics are conveniently located with today’s busy schedules in mind. Our professional friendly team will welcome you to the clinic and support your family:
- Early morning and evening appointment times
- Free and convenient parking
- Online appointment scheduling
- Providing direct insurance options, and assisting you with any administrative concerns
- Collaboration and connection with other community supports and partners, to provide comprehensive support for your child and their needs