Paediatric Neuro Physiotherapy & MAES Therapy

Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy and MAES Therapy are different therapies, but share a common goal of addressing movement challenges in children with neurological conditions. MAES Therapy is a specific approach with its own set of principles and techniques.

The choice between these therapies may depend on the specific needs of the child, the expertise of the healthcare professionals involved, and the goals of the intervention. It’s important to note that the field of pediatric rehabilitation is diverse, and various therapeutic approaches may be used based on individualized assessments and treatment plans.

Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy is also known as Pediatric Neurological Physiotherapy. It addresses movement disorders in children affected by neurological conditions. Conditions like cerebral palsy, developmental delay, genetic disorders, and neurological injuries are included. Pediatric neuro physiotherapy focuses on the child’s motor function, coordination, balance, and overall physical development. So, personalized therapeutic exercises, activities, and interventions are integral to this therapy.

MAES Therapy is a specific therapeutic approach that addresses postural control difficulties in children with neuro developmental disorders. Its use is based on the Movement Analysis Education Strategies (MAES) that involves a detailed assessment of a child’s movement patterns, identification of underlying motor control difficulties. The result is the development of a personalized program to enhance motor skills of the child. A supportive environment is created for the child.

Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy:

Features

At Ashoka Child Development Centre, Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy is characterized by individualized assessments that delve into a child’s movement patterns and neurological function, forming the basis for personalized treatment plans. These interventions are goal-oriented, aiming to enhance specific motor functions, coordination, and overall physical development. Customized exercise programs, often incorporating play and enjoyable activities, engage children in the rehabilitation process, making it both effective and enjoyable.

The use of assistive devices and adaptive equipment may be recommended to support mobility, and the involvement of parents or caregivers is integral, with therapists providing education and training for continued support at home. Collaborative efforts with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary approach ensure a comprehensive strategy for a child’s care.

Benefits

Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy yields numerous benefits, including the improvement of motor function, coordination, and gross motor skills. By addressing movement challenges early, the therapy contributes to increased independence in daily tasks and self-care, preventing secondary complications.

The therapy supports the achievement of developmental milestones, fostering the child’s confidence and positive self-esteem. Ultimately, Pediatric Neuro Physiotherapy enhances a child’s overall quality of life, promoting greater participation in daily activities and social interactions, and contributing to their holistic development.

MAES Therapy:

MAES Therapy is a holistic treatment approach directed at long-term development of infants and children facing various neuro-developmental conditions. They include Cerebral Palsy (CP) and similar unexplained or undiagnosed conditions. This therapy is accessible to children of all ages whose neurological challenges hinder their typical developmental trajectory.

The philosophy of MAES Therapy revolves around recognizing the detrimental effects of shortcuts on sustained development. Typically, a child’s chosen developmental path is influenced by the brain’s inclination toward immediate solutions. While these shortcuts may yield short-term benefits, they often lack the quality and diversity of movement necessary for optimal long-term development.

Maes Therapy, alternatively recognized as Movement Analysis and Education Strategies (MAES) therapy, originates from the expertise of Dr. Leuven Maes, a Belgian pediatric neurologist and movement specialist. This comprehensive therapeutic approach is dedicated to enhancing the movement, posture, and overall functionality of children facing developmental challenges, notably those diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Features

Ashoka’s MAES Therapy is characterized by several prominent features that distinguish it as a holistic approach to address the needs of children with developmental disabilities, especially those with conditions like cerebral palsy.

Holistic Approach: Our approach to MAES Therapy is quite comprehensive, considering the child as a whole and addressing various aspects of their development, including movement, posture, and overall function.

Individualized Treatment: The therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each child. It recognizes that every individual may have different challenges and abilities, and the treatment is personalized accordingly.

Focus on Movement Optimization: A central focus of MAES Therapy is the optimization of movement patterns. The therapy aims to improve the quality and variety of a child’s movement, fostering better motor skills and functional abilities.

Long-Term View: MAES Therapy emphasizes a long-term perspective on development. It seeks to address the root causes of movement challenges, promoting sustained improvement rather than short-term solutions.

Suitable for Various neuro-developmental Conditions: This therapy is not limited to children with cerebral palsy, by includes a range of neuro-developmental conditions. Both the diagnosed and undiagnosed conditions that impact a child’s development are addressed.

Awareness of Negative Impacts of Shortcuts: The therapy acknowledges that taking shortcuts in movement may offer immediate results but can negatively impact long-term development. It encourages avoiding habits that may hinder optimal motor and functional skills.

Recognition of Spontaneous Learning Patterns: MAES Therapy takes into account how children with neuro-developmental conditions naturally learn to do things. It recognizes that these spontaneous learning patterns may influence the child’s ability to perform certain tasks.

Pressure and Performance Consideration: The therapy acknowledges the influence of internal or external pressures on a child’s performance and development. It aims to guide children away from adopting movement shortcuts in response to such pressures.

Formation of Atypical Movement: MAES Therapy recognizes that certain movement shortcuts can become ingrained habits, forming the basis of ‘atypical’ movement patterns. The therapy works to address and correct these habits.

Overall, MAES Therapy stands out for its holistic, individualized, and long-term approach to improving the movement and functional abilities of children with neuro-developmental conditions.

Benefits

Ashoka’s MAES Therapy offers a range of potential benefits for children with neuro-developmental conditions. While individual outcomes may vary, here are some commonly reported benefits:

Improved Movement Skills: The primary goal of MAES Therapy is to optimize movement patterns. Many children experience improvements in their motor skills, coordination, and overall movement abilities.

Enhanced Posture: The therapy addresses posture issues, helping children achieve better alignment and balance. Improved posture can contribute to increased stability and functional independence.

Increased Functional Abilities: By focusing on movement optimization, MAES Therapy aims to enhance a child’s functional abilities. This includes activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, and self-care.

Individualized Treatment: MAES Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of each child. This personalized approach allows for targeted interventions, addressing the unique challenges and strengths of the individual.

Long-Term Developmental Gains: The therapy takes a holistic and long-term view of development, aiming to address the root causes of movement challenges. This approach may lead to sustained improvements over time.

Versatility in Application: While initially designed for children with cerebral palsy, MAES Therapy is applicable to various neuro-developmental conditions. Its versatility makes it suitable for a broad range of developmental challenges.

Prevention of Atypical Movement Patterns: By discouraging the adoption of movement shortcuts and addressing negative habits early on, MAES Therapy aims to prevent the establishment of atypical movement patterns.

Increased Awareness of Movement Choices: The therapy helps children become more aware of their movement choices and encourages the development of a wider range of movement options. This increased awareness can contribute to better adaptability in different situations.

Positive Impact on Daily Life: Families often report improvements in their child’s ability to participate in everyday activities, contributing to an enhanced quality of life for both the child and their caregivers.

Empowerment of Families: MAES Therapy involves families in the treatment process.

Cognitive and Emotional Advantages: Given the close connection between movement and cognitive/emotional development, enhancements in movement skills can have positive repercussions on various facets of a child’s holistic well-being.

Promotion of Independence: By targeting functional abilities and movement optimization, MAES Therapy supports the development of skills that contribute to greater independence for the child.