Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy
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.