Physiotherapy
Torticollis, toe walking and hypermobility
Three of the most common reasons families come to a paediatric physiotherapist: a baby who always turns their head one way, a child who walks on their toes, and a child whose joints move further than most. Each is different, and each responds well to early, gentle support.
Our registered paediatric physiotherapists see children with all three across Ipswich and Springfield. We work with access, empathy and hope, explaining what we see in plain language and helping you decide what, if anything, needs doing.
Torticollis
Torticollis is a tightness on one side of the neck that leaves a baby preferring to turn or tilt their head one way. You might notice a flattening on one side of the head, feeding being easier on one side, or your baby resisting turning towards you. Early gentle stretching, positioning and play usually make a real difference, and the earlier we start the easier it tends to be.
Toe walking
Many toddlers walk on their toes as they learn, and most grow out of it. It is worth a look when it persists past the early years, when your child cannot get their heels down easily, or when only one side is affected. We check calf length, balance and how your child moves overall, then work on flexibility, strength and the habit itself. Sometimes toe walking relates to sensory preferences or another underlying cause, and we will say so if that is what we see.
Hypermobility
Hypermobile joints move beyond the usual range. Plenty of children are simply flexible and have no trouble at all. Others tire quickly, ache after activity, feel unsteady, or avoid things their friends manage easily. Where it is causing difficulty we build the strength and control that give joints support through their range, and we pace activity so your child can do more without paying for it afterwards. This work sits within our physiotherapy for kids service.
What a first visit looks like
We watch your child move, examine the specific area, and listen to what you have noticed at home. You will leave understanding what is going on and whether it needs active treatment, monitoring or simply reassurance. Where a plan is helpful we keep it short and realistic, because the things that work are the things that actually get done.
Where we see children
- In our Springfield clinic
- At home
- At daycare, kindy or school
- In the community
Frequently asked questions
My baby has a head turn preference. Is it urgent?
Not urgent, but earlier is easier. Necks respond well to gentle work, and starting sooner usually means a shorter course and less chance of head shape changes. A check is worthwhile even if you suspect it is mild.
Will my child grow out of toe walking?
Many do. If it persists past the early years, affects one side only, or your child cannot get their heels to the ground comfortably, it is worth assessing. We will tell you honestly if watchful waiting is the sensible option.
Does being hypermobile mean my child needs treatment?
Not necessarily. Flexibility without pain, fatigue or difficulty usually needs nothing more than sensible activity. We treat when it is causing problems, not because of the flexibility itself.
Not sure whether to have it looked at?
We’ll partner with you to create a plan that works for your family — with access, empathy and hope.
Request an appointment Explore this serviceOr call 0480 841 300 · hello@accesstotherapy.com.au