Neurodevelopmental Conditions

Neurodevelopmental conditions are a group of conditions that affect how the brain develops and how it communicates with the rest of the body. They include cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder (with motor coordination difficulties), hypotonic conditions, and others. Physiotherapy does not change the underlying diagnosis - but it meaningfully improves a child’s physical function, independence, and quality of life by targeting the musculoskeletal and motor consequences of the condition.

What can physiotherapy address in a child with a neurodevelopmental condition?

The goals of physiotherapy are functional - defined by what the child and family want to be able to do. Depending on the condition and the child, physiotherapy can address:

• Gross motor development: facilitating milestone achievement - rolling, sitting, standing, walking - using movement that is motivating and developmentally appropriate
• Muscle tone management: for children with spasticity (high tone) or hypotonia (low tone), therapy aims to optimise tone for functional movement and prevent secondary complications such as contractures
• Postural management: developing programmes - including positioning equipment, splints, and active exercise - to maintain joint range and support body shape over time
• Mobility and independence: supporting transitions (floor to standing, in and out of chairs), gait training, stair management, and safe participation in everyday activities
• Physical activity participation: adapted exercise and sport participation, appropriate to the child’s capacity and interests
• Carer training: teaching parents and caregivers handling, lifting, carrying, and facilitation techniques that support the child’s development and protect the carer’s own physical health

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in childhood, caused by a non-progressive lesion to the developing brain. Its motor manifestations range from subtle (mild coordination difficulties, one-sided weakness) to significant (limited independent movement). Early and consistent physiotherapy is associated with better functional outcomes across the CP spectrum. Goji’s physiotherapy for children with CP follows evidence-based frameworks including goal-setting with families, progressive strengthening, and activity-based therapy.

Down syndrome

Children with Down syndrome have hypotonia (low muscle tone), which affects their posture, strength, and the pace of gross motor development. Physiotherapy targets tone-appropriate strengthening, joint stability, and milestone facilitation. Children with Down syndrome can achieve independent mobility and meaningful physical activity; physiotherapy supports that trajectory, particularly in the early years.

Autism spectrum disorder and motor coordination

Many children with autism have motor coordination difficulties - affecting their posture, balance, gross motor skills, and participation in physical activities. Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD, formerly dyspraxia) may coexist. Physiotherapy addresses the motor component directly, using approaches that are sensory-aware and adapted to the child’s communication and sensory profile.

What does a session at Goji involve?

Our physiotherapist will spend time getting to know your child and your family before any formal assessment. Understanding what matters to your child - their interests, their communication style, what they find rewarding or aversive - shapes how the session is structured. Assessment uses standardised and observational tools appropriate to the diagnosis and age. Goals are set collaboratively with parents, and often with the child where possible, to ensure therapy is meaningful and motivating. Sessions are structured around the child’s engagement and tolerance; our physiotherapist is experienced in adapting her approach to different communication styles and sensory needs.

Frequently asked questions

My child with cerebral palsy is 6 years old. Is physiotherapy still useful at this age?

Yes. While the brain lesion in CP is non-progressive, the musculoskeletal consequences - including muscle tightness, contractures, and postural changes - are progressive without intervention. Physiotherapy across childhood and adolescence helps maintain function, prevent secondary complications, and support participation in education and leisure activities.

Can Goji work alongside my child’s school-based therapy?

Yes. Many children with neurodevelopmental conditions receive physiotherapy through MOE-funded early intervention centres (EIPIC) or school-based programmes. Goji can complement this with additional sessions or more specialised input. Coordination between settings ensures consistency.

My child with autism has significant sensory sensitivities. Can Goji accommodate this?

Yes. Our physiotherapist is experienced in adapting sessions for children with sensory processing differences. This may include: adjusting the physical environment (lighting, sound), using visual supports, allowing for transitions and movement breaks, and building trust gradually before starting any physical assessment or treatment. Please tell us about your child’s specific needs when you contact us so we can prepare the session appropriately.

My child with Down syndrome is not yet walking at 24 months. Should we be more concerned than for a typically developing child?

The expected range for independent walking in children with Down syndrome is broader than for typically developing children - typically between 18 and 36 months. At 24 months, this is within range. What matters more is the trajectory: is your child progressing through the pre-walking milestones (pulling to stand, cruising, standing with support)? Physiotherapy can support that progression regardless of whether the timeline is “typical”.

Does Goji provide intensive therapy programmes?

Goji provides one-to-one physiotherapy sessions. Intensive therapy programmes can be discussed on a case-by-case basis. For children who would benefit from an intensive programme, our physiotherapist will advise on the most appropriate setting and format.

What equipment might my child need?

This depends entirely on the child’s needs and goals. Some children benefit from positioning equipment (wedges, seating systems), ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), or walking aids. Goji can assess the need for equipment and liaise with orthotists or equipment suppliers as part of the management plan.