Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy

kids therapy works msk

Expert treatment for sports injuries, growing pains, and muscle/joint problems

Through targeted treatment and exercises, MSK therapy aims to optimise mobility and function via tailored intervention. In addition, we can advise on and provide strength and conditioning programmes to help prevent future problems.

MSK specialises in addressing and rehabilitating bone, muscle, and joint problems in children and young people. Our experienced paediatric physiotherapists provide evidence-based treatment for sports injuries, growing pains, postural problems, and movement difficulties across East Anglia and beyond.

What is Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy?

Musculoskeletal physiotherapy focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of problems affecting the bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Unlike adult MSK therapy, our paediatric approach considers the unique challenges of growing bodies, developing movement patterns, and age-specific activities.

Our physiotherapists understand how children's musculoskeletal systems develop and adapt our treatments accordingly. We work closely with young athletes, active children, and those experiencing pain or movement difficulties to restore function and prevent future problems.

Conditions we treat

Sports injuries

  • Acute injuries from football, rugby, gymnastics, dance, and other sports

  • Overuse injuries from repetitive training or competition

  • Growth-related sports injuries unique to developing athletes

  • Return-to-sport rehabilitation programmes

Growing pains and development-related issues

  • Sever's disease (heel pain in active children)

  • Osgood-Schlatter disease (knee pain during growth spurts)

  • Growing pains in legs and joints

  • Growth-related muscle tightness and joint stiffness

Muscle and joint conditions

  • Muscular strains and tears

  • Joint sprains and ligament injuries

  • Chronic pain conditions

  • Muscle weakness following injury or illness

Postural problems

  • Poor posture from prolonged sitting or device use

  • Postural pain affecting neck, shoulders, and back

  • Movement pattern dysfunctions

  • Core weakness affecting posture and stability

Orthopaedic conditions

  • Post-fracture rehabilitation and mobility recovery

  • Pre and post-operative physiotherapy for orthopaedic procedures

  • Joint hypermobility and instability

  • Arthritis and inflammatory joint conditions

Our musculoskeletal physiotherapy approach

Comprehensive assessment

Our physiotherapists conduct thorough evaluations including:

  • Movement analysis and biomechanical assessment

  • Strength, flexibility, and joint mobility testing

  • Sports-specific movement screening

  • Postural assessment and ergonomic evaluation

  • Pain assessment and functional impact analysis

Evidence-based treatment techniques

  • Manual therapy including joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques

  • Therapeutic exercise programmes tailored to age and activity level

  • Sports-specific rehabilitation and movement retraining

  • Strength and conditioning programmes

  • Pain management strategies including education and self-management

Injury prevention programmes

  • Movement screening to identify risk factors

  • Strength and conditioning programmes for young athletes

  • Education about injury prevention and load management

  • Sports-specific training advice and technique modification

  • Ergonomic assessment for school and home environments

Why choose Kids' Therapy Works for MSK physiotherapy?

Paediatric expertise

  • Specialist knowledge of children's musculoskeletal development

  • Understanding of growth-related conditions and injuries

  • Age-appropriate treatment approaches and communication

  • Experience working with young athletes and active children

Comprehensive care

  • Assessment and treatment of the whole child, not just the injury

  • Collaboration with parents, coaches, and schools

  • Integration with other therapy services when needed

  • Long-term follow-up and injury prevention support

Evidence-based practice

  • Latest research-informed treatment techniques

  • Outcome monitoring and progress tracking

  • Continual professional development in paediatric MSK care

  • NICE guideline compliance and best practice protocols

What to expect from MSK physiotherapy

Initial consultation

Your child's first appointment includes a comprehensive assessment of their condition, movement patterns, and functional abilities. We discuss symptoms, activity levels, and treatment goals with both child and parents.

Treatment sessions

Sessions typically involve hands-on treatment, therapeutic exercises, and education about managing their condition. We ensure treatments are age-appropriate and engaging for children and young people.

Home programme

We provide tailored exercise programmes and advice for continuing progress between sessions. Parents receive clear guidance on supporting their child's recovery and preventing re-injury.

Progress monitoring

Regular reviews track improvement and adjust treatment plans as needed. We use outcome measures appropriate for children to demonstrate progress and guide treatment decisions.

Common questions about MSK physiotherapy

How long does treatment take?

Treatment duration varies depending on the condition, severity, and individual response. Acute injuries may resolve within weeks, while chronic conditions or complex cases may require longer-term management.

Can physiotherapy help prevent sports injuries?

Yes, our injury prevention programmes include movement screening, strength training, and education to significantly reduce injury risk in young athletes and active children.

Is treatment suitable for very young children?

We adapt our approach for all ages, using play-based activities and family involvement to make treatment effective and enjoyable for younger children.

Getting started with MSK physiotherapy

Our musculoskeletal physiotherapy services are available at all three locations: Copford (Colchester), Stanway, and Brentwood. We also offer home visits across East Anglia and surrounding areas.

Whether your child has suffered a sports injury, is experiencing growing pains, or has ongoing muscle and joint problems, our expert team can help them return to full activity and prevent future issues.

Ready to help your child get back to their activities?

Contact Kids' Therapy Works on 01206 212 849 to book an MSK physiotherapy assessment. Our experienced team is here to support your child's recovery and long-term musculoskeletal health.