Pediatric Physiotherapy and Developmental Conditions: Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delay, Congenital and Neuromuscular Disorders
What the exam tests
Cerebral palsy, developmental delay, congenital and neuromuscular disorders, and family-centred assessment.
Core rules and concepts
- Milestones: sits unsupported around 6–8 months, walks around 12–18 months. Persistent toe-walking, asymmetry, or regression needs review.
- Cerebral palsy: GMFCS levels I–V; spastic, dyskinetic, and ataxic types. Manage contracture, gait, and participation; avoid overstretching tight hamstrings without a functional goal.
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy: avoid eccentric and high-resistance exercise; monitor respiratory function and contractures; corticosteroids have significant side effects.
- Developmental delay: screen vision and hearing, use standardised tools, involve the family, and start early intervention.
- Consent: obtain parent or guardian consent; seek child assent where appropriate.
Worked example
An 18-month-old is not walking, has tight Achilles tendons, and delayed speech. Reasoning: do not dismiss as “late bloomer”. Screen milestones, refer for developmental and neurological assessment, and start family-centred gross-motor play.
Traps that cost marks
Missing regression; overstretching in Duchenne muscular dystrophy; ignoring family goals; using adult outcome measures in children; failing to screen vision and hearing.